Omar Khalid
Resin is a tricky material that tends to stick to many surfaces, from wood to glass and paper to fabrics, due to the chemical bonds it forms. However, it's important to know which materials resin will not stick to, to avoid any adhesion issues. Some plastics, such as polyethylene, polypropylene, vinyl, and PTFE, are not compatible with resin and can cause it to peel, crack, or slide off. This is because they have low surface energy and a non-polar molecular structure, creating a barrier that prevents resin from adhering or penetrating. Other materials that resin typically does not stick to include silicone, polystyrene, pure metals, rubber, and certain types of paper, such as parchment or wax paper.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Resin not sticking to plastic | Polyethylene, polypropylene, vinyl, PTFE, polystyrene, plastic bags, and acrylic plastic |
| Reasons | Low surface energy, non-polar molecular structure, non-porous, hydrophobic, chemical dissimilarity, and the presence of slip agents |
| Solutions | Find a sealer that sticks to both plastic and resin, use a melamine board, or apply automotive paste wax |
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What You'll Learn
Resin and plastic incompatibility
Plastics that are known to be incompatible with resin include polyethylene, polypropylene, vinyl, PTFE, and polystyrene. Polyethylene, polypropylene, and PTFE have non-polar molecular structures, while polyethylene and polystyrene have low surface energy, making it difficult for resin to adhere to them. Polystyrene is also hydrophobic, meaning it repels water, while resin is a water-based substance that requires a porous surface to bond properly. The non-porous nature of polystyrene makes it challenging for resin to penetrate and form a strong bond.
Some plastics also feature a coating that contains slip agents or wax, further reducing adhesion. For example, freezer paper has a polyethylene coating on one side, creating a non-porous and low surface energy barrier that prevents resin from bonding. Plastic bags, which are made of polyethylene, are also challenging for resin to stick to due to their low surface energy.
To improve adhesion between resin and plastic, some people suggest using a solvent such as acetone or lacquer thinner to etch the plastic surface and allow the resin to grip better. Others suggest gluing the plastic pieces to the resin with a product like E40. However, it is important to note that not all plastics will adhere to resin, and it may be necessary to find a different material or use a sealer that is compatible with both the plastic and the resin.
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Plastic types: polyethylene, polypropylene, vinyl, PTFE
When working with resin, it is important to know which materials it will stick to and which it won't. Resin will not stick to polyethylene plastic. Disposable plastic sheets for painting and sandwich bags both contain polyethylene, and epoxy resin will not stick to these. This makes them a great protector for your resin art and crafting area.
Polypropylene is a type of plastic resin that is often used in packaging and labelling. It is a popular choice for creating resin crafts because it is flexible, durable, and has good adhesion to many materials, including resin. However, it is always recommended to do a small test before starting your project to ensure that the resin will stick to the desired plastic surface.
Vinyl is another type of plastic that is commonly used in resin crafts. It is important to note that not all shower curtains are made of vinyl, and it is recommended to check before using them as a resin surface. Vinyl is a versatile material that can be used for a variety of resin projects, such as glitter tumblers and keycaps for keyboards.
PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) is a synthetic fluoropolymer often used as a non-stick coating for cookware and other applications where low friction and high heat resistance are required. While it is not commonly mentioned in resin craft discussions, it is possible that PTFE may be used in certain resin applications due to its non-stick properties. However, specific information on its effectiveness in resin crafts is limited.
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Plastic surface energy and porosity
The surface energy of plastics quantifies the disruption of intermolecular bonds in the material. A higher value indicates a stronger affinity between molecules, which helps determine how readily these molecules bond to other substances.
Plastics with low surface energy, such as polyethylene, polypropylene, vinyl, PTFE, and polystyrene, are not compatible with resin and can cause it to peel or crack. These plastics have a non-polar molecular structure, making them resistant to adhesion by most resins. Their smooth, non-porous surfaces lack the reactive sites needed for chemical bonding with resin. The molecular chains of low-surface-energy plastics are tightly packed, creating a barrier that prevents resin from penetrating or adhering.
To improve the surface energy of plastics and enhance their adhesion properties, treatments such as corona, flame, or plasma surface treatments can be applied. These treatments modify the surface chemistry, increasing the surface energy and making the plastic more receptive to coatings, inks, or adhesives.
Additionally, some plastics have coatings that contain slip agents, further reducing their adhesion capabilities. For example, freezer paper has a polyethylene (plastic) coating on one side, creating a non-porous, low-surface-energy barrier that prevents resin from penetrating or bonding.
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Plastic preparation and treatment
To enhance adhesion between resin and plastic, proper preparation and treatment are necessary. One method is to identify the type of plastic and select a suitable sealer or primer that is compatible with both the plastic and resin. This approach can improve adhesion and provide a stronger bond. However, it is important to note that some plastics, such as polyethylene, polypropylene, and PTFE, may still pose challenges due to their inherent chemical resistance to bonding with resin.
When working with vinyl, it is essential to ensure proper preparation and treatment. Vinyl and resin are chemically distinct, and without proper priming or treatment, their adhesion may be compromised. Similarly, silicone, known for its natural resistance to adhesion, will only adhere to itself. Therefore, when using silicone molds, it is crucial to consider the release of the cured resin from the mold rather than adhesion.
For effective plastic treatment and improved resin adhesion, it is recommended to use a plastic tool to scrape off any excess resin before it hardens. Additionally, when working with ceramic tiles, lightly sanding the surface can enhance adhesion. However, it is important to cover the work area with plastic sheeting to protect the surface and ensure a non-stick environment. Automotive Paste Wax, which contains Carnauba, can also be applied to create a non-stick surface, allowing plastic to slip and move easily.
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Alternative methods and materials
There are several alternative methods and materials that can be used to make resin stick to plastic. Here are some suggestions:
Sanding and Adhesives
One method is to sand the plastic surface to make it rougher and provide a better area for the resin to stick to. This can be done using sandpaper or a similar abrasive material. After sanding, the surface can be wiped with alcohol to remove any residue. Then, an adhesive such as super glue, CA glue, or a two-part epoxy resin can be applied to bond the resin to the plastic.
UV Resin
UV resin is known for its ability to stick to a variety of surfaces, including plastic. By using UV resin, you may be able to achieve better adhesion between the resin and plastic without the need for extensive surface preparation.
Molds and Sealers
If you are trying to create a specific shape or object with resin and plastic, consider using a mold. Silicone molds are commonly used for resin casting because the resin will not stick to the silicone, allowing for easy removal once cured. Additionally, you can explore using a sealer or primer that is compatible with both the plastic and resin. This can provide a better surface for the resin to adhere to and improve the overall bond.
Alternative Plastics
Not all plastics are incompatible with resin. While some types of plastic, such as polyethylene, polypropylene, vinyl, and PTFE, are known to cause issues with resin adhesion, other plastics may provide a better surface for bonding. Experimenting with different types of plastics, such as polystyrene or acrylic, might lead to better adhesion with resin.
Surface Treatments
Treating the plastic surface with certain chemicals or processes can improve resin adhesion. For example, removing any grease or coatings from the plastic surface can enhance adhesion. Additionally, using a solvent such as acetone or a lacquer thinner can etch the plastic surface, providing a better bond with the resin.
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Frequently asked questions
Some plastics, such as polyethylene, polypropylene, vinyl, and PTFE, are not compatible with resin and can cause it to peel or crack. These plastics are often used in applications that require resistance to chemicals and UV light, which can weaken the bond of resin.
Polyethylene plastic is used in the manufacturing of many resin molds, so it is a great material to use as epoxy resin cannot stick to it. Other plastics that resin does not stick to include polypropylene, vinyl, and PTFE.
By selecting the right surface and preparing it properly, the bond between resin and the surface can be improved. This includes cleaning and degreasing the surface, and using a primer designed for resin when creating any project.
