Natural Resin Versus Epoxy Resin: Their Pros and Cons

Resins have a lot of uses nowadays where there are a lot of things being developed and innovated. Resin is considered as a waste product found in plants since there has been no scientific explanation on how resin holds such great importance. Resins are commonly used for varnishes, adhesives, perfumes, and the production of amber. A synthetic version of resin is known as epoxy resin which is produced through the soaping or the esterification of organic compounds. Epoxy resins have properties that are similar to natural resins; they are also viscous liquids that can harden overtime.

Resins

Pros

Natural resin has a lot of different uses. To name a few, resin is usually used in the production of cement, varnishes, adhesives, perfume, frankincense, turpentine and a lot more. Gum resin, which is a type of resin, is also used for therapeutic purposes since it also contains essential oils.

Resin, when solidified and removed from its volatile terpene components, are applied in several bowed instruments like violins, rebecs, erhus, and sarangis. These hard transparent resins which are also known as rosins add sound quality to the instruments because of the added friction on the hair.

Cons

Although it is not capable of sublimation and it is not soluble in water, resin can melt in extreme heat or when it is immersed in liquids with high alcohol content. Sometimes, resin has a turpentine-like smell and taste and it will look like an unsightly stain when used incorrectly with other materials that have a contrasting color.

Epoxy Resins

Pros

Epoxy resin has been proven to be two times stronger than concrete; it is also seamless and is waterproof that is why it is used for interiors and industrial floor planning purposes.

Epoxy resins are high performance adhesives that are also used in the construction of aircrafts, bicycles, automobiles, snow boards, skis, golf clubs, and boats. These exceptional adhesives are also used for wood, stone, glass, and metal.

Cons

Epoxy resins can sometimes trigger allergic reactions to the user.

It is also a main cause of occupational asthma among people who use it regularly for their work.

A certain type of epoxy resin, which is known as Bisphenol A. has been known to cause endocrine disruptions in the body.

Knowing the pros and cons of both resins and epoxy resins will help you a lot in determining which type of resin will suit your needs best and will also guarantee your safety.