Resins + Hardeners
Resins & Hardeners for Composite Materials
Resins and hardeners are essential to produce fibre composites. The resin gives the component its shape, while fibres made of glass, carbon or aramid provide reinforcement. The fibres are embedded as fabrics in the liquid reactive resin mass and anchored in the resulting solid moulded material during curing. Even complicated and large parts can be manufactured in a single operation with relatively little effort.
Resin Types & Applications
Epoxy Resins
Premium two-component systems offering the highest performance for demanding applications. Paired with specific epoxy hardeners for optimal results.
Polyester Resins
Cost-effective solution with good properties, especially for glass fibre reinforcement.
Specialised Applications
- Laminating - Hand lay-up and spray applications
- Casting - Thick section casting and encapsulation
- Vacuum Infusion/RTM - Advanced manufacturing processes
- Gelcoats - High-quality surface finishes
- Mould Resins - Tooling and mould construction
Hardeners & Two-Component Systems
Most professional resins require specific hardeners to achieve optimal properties. The choice of hardener affects:
- Processing time (5 minutes to several hours)
- Final strength and temperature resistance
- Application method (hand lay-up, spray, injection)
Our epoxy resin hardeners are precisely matched to each resin system for guaranteed performance.
Certifications & Approvals
R&G supplied resins have certifications from the German Federal Aviation Authority (aircraft construction), TÜV Süd (automotive), Germanischer Lloyd (marine, wind turbine blades) and Cytox reports (medical technology).
Processing Times & Temperature Performance
Processing times depend on hardener selection. Comparative data for epoxy resins
Service temperatures: Cold-curing resins cure well at room temperature and withstand temperatures up to 60°C. For higher service temperatures, components require additional heat post-curing. Service temperatures then range from 90°C to 230°C.
Low temperatures down to -100°C are generally no problem. More about heat treatment and tempering chambers
Quick Comparison: Resin Properties
Epoxy Resin Properties:
- Two-component systems (resin + hardener)
- Excellent adhesion to glass, aramid and carbon fibres
- Very high composite strength
- Shrinkage: < 1% | Elongation at break: up to 8% | Service temperature: -100°C to +230°C
Polyester Resin Properties:
- Good adhesion to reinforcing fibres, especially glass
- Cost-effective
- Shrinkage: up to 3% | Elongation at break: > 3% | Service temperature: -100°C to 160°C
Polyurethane Properties:
- Hard-elastic, low-shrinkage fast-casting resins (12 minutes)
- Closed-cell, flame-retardant foams
Applications of Fibre Composites
Comprehensive overview of composite applications across aerospace, marine, automotive, wind energy, and industrial sectors.
FAQ
Which resin should I choose?
- Epoxy for highest performance and strength
- Polyester for cost-effective general applications
- Casting resins for thick sections and encapsulation
What processing methods are available?
Choose from laminating, vacuum infusion, or casting depending on your application requirements.
What's the difference between epoxy and polyester resin?
Epoxy resins offer superior strength, better adhesion, and lower shrinkage but cost more. Polyester resins are more economical and easier to process, making them ideal for general applications where maximum performance isn't critical.
What safety equipment do I need for resin work?
Always use nitrile gloves, safety glasses, and work in well-ventilated areas. Resins and hardeners are hazardous substances requiring proper handling. Consider respiratory protection for spray applications and large projects.
