Epoxy resins are a class of prepolymers and polymers that, when reacted with hardeners or curing agents, form a strong, durable substance used in a variety of commercial and industrial applications.
Epoxy resins are a class of prepolymers and polymers containing more than one epoxide group.
Through a chemical reaction called curing, epoxy resins are processed with other chemicals to
produce epoxy plastics (more commonly known as epoxies). The vast majority of epoxy resins
are industrially produced petroleum derivatives. Today, hundreds of resins are available, the
most common produced with epichlorohydrin and Bisphenol A.
Renewable energy sources, such as wind, solar, natural gas and new battery technologies, depend on epoxy technology innovations to help them become more efficient, affordable and scalable.
Epoxy resins used in building and construction applications can help increase the lifespan of buildings by improving the durability of the structural parts, engineering adhesives and paints.
Epoxy resins provide a protective layer that separates food and drinks from the metal used to make their cans. The epoxy resin coatings also help to minimize the corrosion of the metal, which could compromise the safety of the food or drink.
Epoxies have undergone extensive testing for health and environmental effects, and cured, hardened epoxy is inert and unlikely to pose health risks.
Cured epoxy resins do not pose any risk to human health when handled in a professional
manner and following the necessary safety measures. When sold in small quantities as twocomponent systems, composed of an epoxy resin and a hardener, the risk of handling epoxies
comes via skin contact when mixing these components. The necessary safety information should
be always available in the material safety data sheet sold with each product. When these
precautions are taken, epoxies can be handled safely.