A + B = Epoxy : An Introduction
Types of Epoxy
There are two main different types of resins that you would be working with.
Thin Pour 1:1 mix ratio
Deep Pour 2:1 mix ratio
The ratios are always in order A : B. “A” will always be the Resin and “B” will always be the Hardener. The above reads as
Thin Pour is 1 Part A (Resin) : 1 Part B (Hardener) = Epoxy
Deep Pour is 2 Parts A (Resin) : 1 Part B Hardener) = Epoxy
The ratios are in A:B order but you when you mix them you should always start with B.
Thin Pour 1:1 Mix Ratio Application
Countertops
Seal Coats on Wood (instead of varnish)
Artistic Pours & Art Covers
Crafts (Jewelry, Coasters, Wine Racks, etc.)
Deep Pour 2:1 Mix Ratio Application
Epoxy River Tables
Art pieces that require epoxy that is more than 1/2 inch thick
Differences Between These Epoxies
Depth of pour - this is a very important factor when deciding on which type of Epoxy to purchase. Most 1:1 Epoxy is made for pouring at a depth of less than 1/2 (half) of an inch. 2:1 Epoxy is made for your deeper pours on things such as river tables with depths of anything over 1/2 (half) inches thick.
The difference between the deep pour and the thin pour is in the chemical reaction. A + B = Epoxy is an Exothermic Reaction. This means that while it cures, it gives off heat. The Epoxy mixture itself has a higher internal temperature which is what helps it cure to a solid surface. So deep pour epoxy will heat much slower and the thinner epoxy will heat much faster. If you pour the 1:1 as a deep pour, it would cause too much heat internally and as it continues to cure and solidify, the Epoxy will crack and fracture allowing the heat to escape. The deep pour is mixed at a different ration, being a 2:1 Epoxy, and this decreased the heat and internal temperature while it is curing, allowing it to be poured at a thicker depth.
Viscosity - 1:1 epoxy is thicker as there is more Hardener (B) in the mixture. It feels more like a syrup that has been warmed up. The 2:1 has more Resin (A) in the mixture so it is closer to a water and flows more freely.
Cure Time - also known as time until your liquid mixture has formed a true solid. As the epoxy cures, it goes through stages of viscosity; water, syrup, peanut butter, spongy, and then finally a solid. When your Epoxy is fully cured, there should never be “sticky spots.” It will be a true solid surface piece. 1:1 Epoxy has a shorter cure time as it has more Hardener in the ratio, and is poured at a more shallow depth, typically it takes 24 hours to become solid. 2:1 Epoxy has less Hardener in the mix, and is poured deeper, increasing the cure time to 72 hours to becoming a solid. Epoxy will continue to cure over the coming weeks, making it harder, stronger, and more of a solid surface. It’s best to not use it during this time - but if you are careful to not put hot or heavy objects on it, it’s typically ok.
Cost - Typically no matter the brand, your 2:1 deep pours are more expensive than the 1:1. There is a variety of brands to choose from. Feel free to check out our brand here!
Regardless of which resin you select, this is the single most important part of this article:
ALWAYS READ THE MANUFACTURES GUIDELINES FOR RATIOS & MIXING PRODEDURES INCLUDING OPTIMAL STORAGE & USE (TEMPERATURES, HUMIDITY, ETC.) DURING POURING APPLICATION
