Epoxy resin refers to a type of reactive pre-polymer and polymer containing epoxide groups. These resins react either with themselves in the presence of catalysts, or with many co-reactants like amines, phenols, thiols, etc.
Epoxy resin is superior to other types of resins because it has low shrink during cure, and excellent moisture and chemical resistance. It is impact resistant and it has good electrical and insulating properties, and a long shelf life.
The most common epoxy resins are based on reacting Epichlorohydrin (ECH) with bisphenol A. Bisphenol A-based resins are the most widely commercialised resins. Depending upon the amount of excess of Epichlorohydrin to bisphenol-A used in the manufacturing process, epoxy resins ranging from low molecular weight liquids to high molecular weight solids can be obtained.
The following industries predominantly use Epoxy resin:
1. Metal coating Industry
2. Electronic and Electrical Components Industry
3. Fibre-reinforced Plastic Materials Industry
4. Structural Adhesive Industry
5. Paints Industry
6. Sealant Industry
7. Casting Industry
One of the most common uses of epoxy resin is for adhesive purposes. That's because the strong-properties of the epoxy allow for structural and engineering adhesives. Structural composite applications are not epoxy's only major aviation success but Epoxy resins are also used in anti-corrosion coatings and adhesive applications which are very effective at replacing or complementing heavier bonding methods like mechanical fasteners.
Epoxy resins are used as the binder in industrial coatings (primers). They give the paint excellent adhesion together with high resistance to chemicals (corrosion), and physical resistance necessary, for example, on ships and chemical storage tanks.
There are special adhesive properties Epoxy Resin which are durability, strength, and chemical resistance that make it a tough sealant. When the components are mixed together and sprayed over materials such as concrete or wood, it will resist abrasions as well as oil and other liquids.
The global Epoxy Resin market size is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 5.85%. Epoxy resins have a property of containing one more than one epoxy group per molecule and are thermosetting resins that make use of suitable cross-linking agents for higher reactivity. Epoxy resins are respected by being the largest raw material used for different chemical formulations. Highly conducive properties belonging to epoxy resins including high thermal stability, mechanical strength, moisture resistivity, adhesion, and heat resistance make epoxy resins as the resin of choice for several end-user applications such as laminates and insulators.
Growing end-use industries including transportation, marine coatings, aerospace, electrical & electronic laminates, composites, and decorative powder coatings particularly in the Asia Pacific is also expected to impact the global market positively. Increasing research initiatives by key participants coupled with technology innovation in the field of modified resins is expected to create new avenues for industrial applications.