What Are Considered High Solids in Epoxy Paint?
- High solids epoxy paint contains a high percentage of solid components.iron image by Rainer Tagwercher from Fotolia.com
High-solids epoxy paint is at least 65 percent solid components, such as binders, pigments and additives. The solids are mixed with a solvent as a base. Because the solvent content of high-solids epoxy is low, its viscosity is three to four times greater than in other paints. The paint can be thinned by applying heat, pressure or a combination of the two. Epoxy paint forms an adhesive coating that is strong and resistant to the elements. - High-solids epoxy paints were developed as primers that need little surface preparation. Their ability to cover up rust and multiple layers of old paint makes them a popular choice when painting tarnished metal or surfaces with paint buildup. High-solids epoxies also protect against corrosion, and they do not contain lead. The paints can be applied in several layers depending on the degree of coverage necessary.
- Thermoset epoxy is a polymeric resin cured with heat. The paint provides stability and toughness, and is resistant to corrosion. It also is shrink-resistant and has a strong adhesive quality. Thermoset epoxies include melamine and urea formaldehyde, which is used in pressed-wood household products.
- Single-component high-strength epoxies contain only one resin, which hardens by moistening the surface of the treated object or by applying heat. Single-component epoxies are slower to dry than dual-component epoxies. They are most commonly used as a resin binder in fiberglass construction or structural bonding applications.
- Dual-component fast-curing epoxies contain a two-part adhesive, which is cured quickly at room temperature. The two resins work together to form a polymerized bond, which provides a high-strength adhesive for substances such as electrical conductors and fiberglass.
