How to Store Resin
Epoxy resin is a versatile material that can be used for a variety of applications. However, it is important to store epoxy resin with careful consideration to ensure that it remains effective and does not degrade over time.
In this article, our team at Just Resin have put together 5 tips on how to store resin.
1. Temperature Control for Epoxy Resin Storage
To ensure that it remains viable for its various uses, your resin needs to be maintained in a stable temperature range. Should it grow too hot, then the composition could become unsuitable for the mixture with the hardener, and if it becomes too cold, then the resin will steadily crystalize and develop a milkier appearance. If the latter occurs, you may be able to save the product by placing the container in warm water for 10 to 15 minutes (although be extremely careful to avoid water making its way into the containers or bottles, and remember to dry the bottles before use, as this can also adversely affect the cure rate of the mixture). Our recommendation: keeping the lid on, and lid above the water - ensuring water does not leak in. Leave in for approx 10 minutes then use. Ensure bottles are dry prior to using.
We recommend the ideal temperature for storage to sit between 15 to 30 degrees Celsius.
2. Utilise Cardboard or Wood Surfaces when storing epoxy resin
This is an extension of maintaining the temperature of the resin containers or bottles. Should you store them on metal or concrete, you will find that these surfaces remain cooler than the ambient room temperature, meaning it could leave your resin lower than that recommended 15 to 30 degrees. Instead, utilise materials that absorb heat more readily, such as wood shelving, or if you have metal shelves, for example, you can opt to lay cardboard underneath the containers.
3. Storing resin once mixed is not recommended
If you have existing experience with mixing epoxy resins and hardeners, you will be familiar with the chemical reaction that takes place to cure or ‘harden’ the mixture. As such, if you have already mixed your epoxy resin and leave it for storage, it will cure in that state, leaving the mixed product will be unusable. Also, the heat from the chemical reaction could also be dangerous if left unmonitored.
4. Avoid Direct Sunlight When Storing Resin
While sunlight can affect the temperature of your resin, direct UV exposure can also degrade its composition and accelerate the yellowing effect. The epoxy hardener is particularly sensitive to this form of light.
5. Note the Date of purchase before you store Resin
Sometimes when you don’t calculate the correct amount of resin for a project you need more or have some left over. It is important to note the shelf life of the kit when storing resin left over. Depending on the resin kit you have purchased, you will notice there is a prescribed shelf life. Following the epoxy resin care instructions to ensure you are only working with safe, viable mixtures by marking the date upon which you received the resin, as well as the date it effectively ‘expires’ is an excellent strategy that allows you to work through your supplies without wastage.
Refer to Technical Data Sheets which provide epoxy resin care instructions and further information.
All stored resin kits turn yellow eventually
If you need clear resin, buy it when you are close to needing it. Resin is not something you should stockpile. Buy bulk resin based on project size and pour requirements. When the bottles are opened, you have to use them. The hardener will turn yellow quicker than it will in an unopened bottle. If the bottle seal is broken, the chemicals in the kit can oxidize quicker. It can happen before the one-year expiration date in most cases.
Receive More Information on how to store resin from Our Team at Just Resin
If you would like further assistance in the application and storage of your resin, please contact us at Just Resin today.
JR’s Resin Storage Recommendations:
Storing DiamondCote: Can be kept for greater than 12 months, if kept in original containers, with lids tightly closed. Product to be stored in a dry dark room/cupboard at temperatures between 15 and 30ºC, and out of direct sunlight. If the materials have been stored at temperatures below 15ºC for a prolonged period, crystallisation may occur, ensuring to condition both parts of material at 25-30ºC to reduce viscosity and assist in air release.
ArtCast Storage: Storing
Can be kept for greater than 12 months, if kept in original containers, with lids tightly closed. Product to be stored in a dry dark room/cupboard at temperatures between 15 and 30ºC, and out of direct sunlight. If the materials have been stored at temperatures below 15ºC for a prolonged period, crystallisation may occur, ensuring to condition both parts of material at 25-30ºC to reduce viscosity and assist in air release.
Storing Art Resin: Can be kept for greater than 12 months, if kept in original containers, with lids tightly closed. Product to be stored in a dry dark room/cupboard at temperatures between 15 and 30ºC, and out of direct sunlight. If the materials have been stored at temperatures below 15ºC for a prolonged period, crystallisation may occur, ensuring to condition both parts of material at 25-30ºC to reduce viscosity and assist in air release.
WaterCote Resin Storage: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight. Keep containers closed when not in use. Shelf life 12 months when stored at 10 - 30 ºC
*Please note products can start to change colour earlier, products can still be used like normal. After the expiry date products can still perform close to a new batch of resin, only difference being the colour will no longer be colourless clear, we recommend to only use this product once out of date for pigmented applications. If your epoxy resin is more than 6 months out of date, please be cautious when using as the performance will also decline. We recommend testing the product before using it on your projects.
