Resin is a versatile material commonly used in crafts and DIY projects. However, one common frustration when working with resin is when it doesn't stick to certain surfaces. So, what does resin not stick to? In this article, we'll explore the surfaces and materials that resin does not adhere to, helping you achieve better results in your resin projects.
List of things Epoxy Resin does NOT stick to
| Details | Reason |
| Oil or wax-treated Surfaces | Oily and greasy coating forms a barrier that hinders the resin |
| Dusty or dirty surfaces | The particles prevent proper adhesion |
| Most plastics | Chemically different materials do not bond well with one another |
| Certain metals |
|
| Silicone | Naturally resistant to sticking |
| Asphalt | Contains oil |
| Certain Types of Fabrics | The smooth and non-porous surface created by these treatments prevents the resin from being absorbed into the fabric fibers |
| Painter’s Tape and Sheathing Tape | Are specifically created for easy removal without damaging the surface |
| Parchment, Wax, and Freezer Paper | Contains substances like wax or silicone preventing it from stick to plastic |
| Rubber | Natural resistance to adhesion |
| Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) | A slick surface acts as a release agent |
| Acrylic Plastic | Resin and acrylic plastic are two different materials that do not chemically bond effectively |
| Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) | Prone to contamination by substances like dust and oils |
| ABS Plastic | Low adhesion properties |
| Polycarbonate (Most Plastic Containers) | Smooth and non-porous surface |
| Plastic Bags | Low surface energy, creating challenges in forming a bond |
| Polyethylene (Hot Glue) |
|
| Silicone Sealant Caulk | Non-stick properties |
| Plexiglass |
|
Resin can adhere to many surfaces, but there are some it simply won't stick to. Let's uncover what those surfaces are.
Resin is unable to stick to oil or wax-treated surfaces because these substances form a barrier that hinders the resin from effectively attaching. To get resin to attach to these surfaces, you must first remove any oil or wax using sandpaper or a deglosser.
Powder-coated surfaces, commonly seen on outdoor furniture, provide a smooth finish that prevents resin from seeping in and forming a strong bond, leading to peeling or cracking.
Resin won't stick to dusty or dirty surfaces because the particles prevent proper adhesion. To ensure resin sticks, surfaces must be clean, dry, and free of any debris. Wiping with rubbing alcohol or using a tack cloth can help remove dust and improve adhesion.
Does resin stick to metal? Resin struggles to adhere to pure metals due to their smooth and non-porous nature, offering minimal surface area for attachment. Additionally, the presence of a natural oxide layer on pure metals serves as a barrier, hindering the resin from forming a strong bond with the metal surface.
One trick to getting resin to stick to pure metals is to roughen the surface with sandpaper or apply a primer specifically designed for metal surfaces.
Have you ever wondered “will epoxy resin stick to plastic?” Polyethylene, polypropylene, vinyl, and PTFE are examples of plastics that may not be compatible with resin, potentially causing peeling or cracking. These plastics are commonly utilized in situations needing chemical and UV resistance, factors that may compromise the integrity of resin bonding.
Resin and vinyl are distinct materials with unique chemical compositions and characteristics, potentially leading to poor adhesion between them if not properly primed or treated beforehand.
PTFE, popularly known as Teflon, is well-known for its non-reactive, nonstick, and practically frictionless surface, which prevents resin from adhering to it. This property makes it difficult to connect with resin, resulting in weak and unsustainable bonds. As a result, PTFE is widely used as a release surface in the resin casting process.
Polystyrene and resin have different properties when it comes to bonding. Polystyrene, a plastic, repels water due to being hydrophobic. On the other hand, resin, a water-based substance, needs a porous surface to bond effectively. Since polystyrene is non-porous, resin finds it challenging to penetrate and create a secure bond with it.
Silicone is naturally resistant to sticking, only adhering to itself. This quality makes it a preferred option for situations needing a flexible and non-stick surface, like using silicone molds for resin crafts.
Since asphalt contains oil, it is not a suitable match for bonding with epoxy. The presence of oil in asphalt hinders its ability to effectively adhere to epoxy, making it an incompatible combination for various applications.
When fabrics are treated with water-resistant or stain-resistant coatings, the surface is altered, making it hard for resin to stick. As a result, resin can come off easily from these treated fabrics.
Painter's tape and sheathing tape are specifically created for easy removal without damaging the surface. The adhesive bond these tapes provide is not strong enough to hold the weight of resin, ensuring that the tape can be effortlessly peeled off post-resin application.
Parchment, wax, and freezer paper all share a common characteristic of having low surface energy, which poses a challenge for resin to adhere to them effectively. Parchment, derived from animal skin, as well as wax and freezer paper treated with substances like wax or silicone, creates a barrier between the resin and the material, hindering the formation of a strong bond.
Additionally, the slick texture of wax and certain treatments on freezer paper complicates the resin's ability to securely grip and establish a durable bond.
Rubber's natural resistance to adhesion makes it an attractive option for various applications, as resin does not adhere to it. This quality of rubber provides a flexible and long-lasting surface, making it a preferred choice for a wide range of uses.
Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) is a popular choice for preventing resin casting adhesion. Its slick surface acts as a release agent, ensuring easy removal.
Resin and acrylic plastic are two different materials that do not chemically bond effectively. The smooth surface of acrylic plastic does not offer an ideal surface for resin adhesion. While a weak bond may form initially, it will not result in a durable connection. Furthermore, acrylic plastic's high surface energy makes it difficult for resins to form a firm connection with its surface.
Polyvinyl chloride, commonly known as PVC, is characterized by its smooth surface that presents a challenge for resins to properly adhere to. In addition, PVC is prone to contamination by substances like dust and oils, creating a barrier that hinders resin from forming a strong bond with the material.
ABS plastic, also known as Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene, is popular for its low adhesion properties. Its polymers have a low surface energy, making it challenging for resin to adhere to. This makes ABS ideal for applications that require high strength. Additionally, using an epoxy resin specifically designed for ABS plastic can also help improve the bonding between the plastic and resin such as J-B Weld PlasticWeld Epoxy Adhesive, Gorilla 2-Part Epoxy, Loctite Epoxy Plastic Bonder,...
Polycarbonate, a plastic known for its smooth and non-porous surface, poses bonding challenges as adhesives struggle to adhere effectively. Its low surface energy further complicates adhesion, making it a tricky material for bonding with resins and other adhesives.
Plastic bags are hard for resins to stick to because they are made of materials with low surface energy, creating challenges in forming a bond.
Resin and hot glue are chemically different and cured in different ways, making it challenging for resin to stick to hot glue. Hot glue, which is a thermoplastic polymer, melts and hardens as it cools, while resin is usually an epoxy-based substance that cures through a chemical process.
Moreover, hot glue surfaces can be smooth and not very absorbent, making it tough for resin to adhere effectively. Also, hot glue can release gases during the curing process, leading to bubbles forming in the resin and potentially reducing the strength of the bond.
Silicone sealant caulk is a versatile material used for sealing and bonding, but it is not recommended for use with resins due to its non-stick properties.
Bonding resin with plexiglass can be tricky because plexiglass doesn't have a rough surface for the resin to grip onto. This can result in the resin sliding off or not sticking properly. Moreover, plexiglass is often coated with a release agent during production to prevent sticking, which further hinders resin adhesion.
Want to make sure your resin sticks properly? Check out these simple yet effective tips for improving adhesion.
One essential tip for enhancing resin adhesion is to start by thoroughly cleaning and preparing the surface before applying the resin. Any dust, dirt, or contaminants on the surface can get trapped in the resin, leading to imperfections in the final result. Additionally, roughening smooth surfaces can enhance adhesion.
Applying a primer made for resin can enhance its ability to stick well. These primers are made to help resin adhere better by making the surface rough, allowing the resin to grip and form a solid connection.
Different types of resins have different properties and adhesion capabilities, so it is important to research and select the one that best suits your project requirements. If you are interested in engaging in 3D printing projects, we have curated a list of the best types of resin for 3d printing. Similarly, if you are looking to create superior wood projects, make sure to check out our articles featuring the top 15+ best epoxy resin for wood.
Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and mix the resin components thoroughly to ensure uniform consistency. When applying the resin, use a brush or a roller to spread it evenly across the surface, ensuring that all areas are coated properly. Avoid leaving any spots uncovered or applying the resin too thickly, as this can lead to uneven adhesion and curing.
*Note
Resin projects require a clean surface for successful adhesion. Discover how to degrease the surface of some popular materials before applying resin to achieve the best results
* Acrylic glass:
*Concrete:
* Polyester Resins
Before applying the polyester resins, it is important to follow these steps to ensure proper adhesion:
* Stone, Ceramics, Glass
To degrease the stone, ceramics, and glass before applying the resin, follow these steps:
* Thermoset Plastics (Epoxies, PVC, Polyurethane, Polyester).
To prepare the Thermoset Plastics for resin application, follow these steps:
Before applying epoxy, it is essential to prepare non-porous surfaces properly by sanding them smooth. Utilizing 80-grit aluminum oxide paper will create the ideal texture for the epoxy to adhere to.
Ensure that the surface is stable and free of any imperfections like flaking, chalking, or blistering, as well as any old coatings before proceeding with sanding. After sanding, it is crucial to thoroughly remove all dust post-sanding to achieve optimal bonding results.
If you want to master the art of sanding epoxy resin in a more detailed way, our detailed guide will break down the process into easy-to-follow steps for you!
List of things Epoxy Resin does stick to
| Surface Category | Reason |
| Wood | Porous nature |
| Steel | Despite its non-porous nature, readily wets when exposed to epoxy |
| Cast Iron | Being easily affected by water when epoxy is applied due to its irregularities |
| Aluminum | High thermal conductivity, and the ability to form an oxide layer |
| Fiberglass | The textured surface of fiberglass provides mechanical interlocking for resin adhesion, while its porosity allows resin penetration, ensuring a strong bond. |
| Concrete | Concrete naturally has pores that allow it to bond effectively with epoxy |
| Bricks | The rough texture of brick provides a mechanical bond |
| Marble | The chemical composition of marble, specifically its calcium carbonate content, can chemically bond with the epoxy resin |
| Stone | Stones have enough porosity to form a strong bond |
| Shells | A high level of porosity and readily absorbs epoxy |
| Ceramic | Rough texture and porous surface |
| Cured/ dried Epoxy | Easily bond with fresh epoxy after sanding |
Resin is a versatile material that can stick to a variety of surfaces, making it a great option for various crafting and DIY projects. So, what does resin stick to? Here are some surfaces that resin easily adheres to!
Wood surfaces are ideal for epoxy application such as creating stunning epoxy countertops, river tables, artistic furniture, and decorative wall art pieces due to their porous nature, allowing the liquid epoxy to seep in and create a strong bond. The resin adds durability and a glossy finish to the wood surface.
Steel, despite its non-porous nature, readily wets when exposed to epoxy, leading to a robust mechanical bond for industrial flooring, automotive body panels, and furniture manufacturing. While the bond may not be as strong as with porous materials, the epoxy's ability to penetrate pores should suffice for most applications.
Cast iron is prone to being easily affected by water when epoxy is applied due to its irregularities. Before using epoxy on cast iron, it is important to thoroughly remove any grease or oils present on the surface. One effective method is to wash the cast iron with hot water to ensure that it is completely free from any oils before applying the epoxy.
Aluminum's smooth surface, high thermal conductivity, and ability to form an oxide layer make it suitable for resin adhesion. Most aluminum and its alloys adhere well to epoxy in applications such as coating and sealing to protect and enhance the appearance of the metal, as well as in manufacturing processes for creating durable and corrosion-resistant products. It is recommended to sand down aluminum surfaces as they are not naturally porous.
The textured surface of fiberglass provides mechanical interlocking for resin adhesion, while its porosity allows resin penetration, ensuring a strong bond. When fiberglass is properly sanded and prepped, it provides a suitable surface for epoxy to adhere to effectively repair breaks, and recreate or join surfaces. It's important to ensure that any oily residues are thoroughly removed from the surface before sanding, as this can result in a less secure bond when the epoxy is applied.
Concrete naturally has pores that allow it to bond effectively with epoxy in the form of coatings, repair materials, paints, adhesives, epoxy mortars, grouts, bonding agents, sealers, and penetrating sealers. To enhance this bond, sanding the concrete surface creates more surface area for the epoxy to adhere to.
The rough texture of brick provides a mechanical bond for the epoxy resin to grip onto, enhancing the overall adhesion between the two materials. But it's important to clear any loose debris on the brick surface that might hinder the strength of the bond. Epoxy is great for sealing brick cracks due to its water-resistant properties. It can effectively bond and seal, even in rainy conditions.
The chemical composition of marble, specifically its calcium carbonate content, can chemically bond with the epoxy resin to create a solid and bonded structure that will not easily break or chip, especially when the surface of the marble is rough and not properly smooth.
Many stones have enough porosity to form a strong bond with epoxy resin. It is important to thoroughly clean the stone surface to eliminate loose debris and imperfections that could hinder the bonding process.
When shells are utilized in epoxy projects, they demonstrate a high level of porosity and readily absorb epoxy, leading to the formation of a durable bond. Resin is commonly used on shell surfaces for waterproofing, protecting against UV damage, enhancing durability, and adding a glossy finish.
Ceramic's rough texture and porous surface make it suitable for resin adherence, however, they end up with a well-polished finish. For ceramic pieces to adhere to epoxy, polishing finishes need to be roughened up with sanding. This process increases surface area and decreases surface tension, allowing the epoxy to properly adhere to a strong bond.
Once the epoxy has fully cured, it becomes rigid, but after thorough sanding, it can easily bond with fresh epoxy. Sanding the cured epoxy ensures a smooth and seamless connection with new layers. However, it's important to note that the success of the bond can also depend on the specific types and brands of epoxy and resin being used. It's always a good idea to test the compatibility and adhesion between the two materials in a small, inconspicuous area before proceeding with a larger project.
Resin sticking to molds is a common issue, but with these handy tips, you can prevent it from happening again.
Using a mold release agent can help create a barrier between the resin and the mold, making it easier to remove the cured resin once it has set. So if unfortunately, your resin is sticky and difficult to get out of the mold, how to fix sticky resin and help it quickly cure? Check out these effective tips for dealing with sticky resin and creating beautiful resin art.
If your resin is too hot, it may end up sticking to the mold. When resin exceeds this temperature range, it can warp or deform, leading to sticking issues. To prevent this, always check the temperature of your resin using a digital thermometer. The recommended temperature range for resin is 70 - 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Related Articles
It is crucial to wait until the resin is fully cured before attempting to de-mold the object. Trying to remove the resin too soon can cause it to stick to the mold and deform the shape of the product. For example, we have to wait 48 - 72 hours for the epoxy resin to cure, while it just needs 30 minutes - 2 hours for UV resin. So, how long does resin take to cure? We have compiled a list of the most resin for your reference when needed.
When using molds for resin casting, it's important to ensure they are free of any uncured silicone spots. These spots can cause the resin to stick and tear when removing it from the mold, especially with tin-cure silicone molds. To prevent this issue, you should use molds that are free from any uncured silicone residues. In addition, different types of resin have their applications, so you should research them before molding them to achieve the best results.
Any residue or moisture left in the mold can cause the resin to not set properly and stick to the mold. It is important to thoroughly clean and dry your molds before each use to avoid any potential issues.
When resin is not mixed properly, it can lead to uneven curing and the formation of air bubbles, both of which can cause the resin to stick to the mold. To ensure a flawless finish when working with epoxy resin, it’s essential to mix your resin and hardener precisely. Start by gathering the right tools and setting up your workspace in an area that’s clean and free of dust.
The mixing ratio is critical and varies by product; it could be 2:1, 3:1, or even 5:1. Read our article about how to mix resin and hardener to know more details about the right mixing process.
In conclusion, what does resin not stick to? We have already compiled a list of the 20+ common surfaces that are unsuitable for resin adhesion. By keeping them in mind, you can avoid frustrating mishaps and ensure successful projects.
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