| SYMPTOMS |
ISSUE |
SOLUTION |
| ThickSet epoxy cured yellow, not clear |
- The epoxy was poured too thick, excessive heat from the curing reaction turned it yellow.
- Methods to help dissipate heat were not successful during the cure reaction.
- ThickSet was improperly stored for an extended period of time, and the hardener took an exceptionally yellow cast,
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- Do not use epoxy that has yellowed from improper storage on any projects that require a clear appearance.
- Pouring ThickSet too thickly generates excessive heat during the curing reaction. If the epoxy reaches roughly 170-180°F or warmer during the reaction, it may take a permanent yellow cast. As the heat increases beyond this temperature, so does the yellowing.
- If methods are in place to help dissipate heat once the epoxy reaches the gelation period, take extra care to monitor the temperature of the cure and take precautions to control the temperature.
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| ThickSet epoxy did not cure with a smooth or level surface |
- The epoxy was poured too thick, and excessive heat from the curing reaction turned it yellow.
- Contaminants
- The epoxy was being worked during the gel stage of the cure.
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- Mechanically remove any epoxy that is deemed unacceptable, and reapply, or heavily sand the surface until it is smooth and reapply.
- Heavily sand, then wet sand, then buff the surface until it is smooth and glossy.
- Start the project over, taking extra care to remove any potential contaminants, and do not exceed the recommended pour depth of the epoxy. Do not attempt to work the epoxy past the posted working time.
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| ThickSet epoxy cured with cracks |
- The epoxy was poured too thick, and excessive heat from the curing is showing symptoms of shrinkage and cracking.
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- Redo the project, or mechanically remove any cracked epoxy and reapply ThickSet, taking better care not to pour the epoxy thicker than advised.
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| ThickSet epoxy did not cure in some areas |
- Poorly mixed epoxy
- A contaminant or incompatible material was added to the epoxy.
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- Wait an extra 12 hours to see if the epoxy cures.
- Remove any epoxy that has not fully cured. Clean the substrate completely and remove any possible contamination.
- Reapply ThickSet, as desired.
- Ensure that ThickSet is mixed at the proper ratio of resin to hardener.
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| ThickSet epoxy did not cure; still soft and tacky |
- Improper mix ratio of resin and hardener
- A contaminant or incompatible material was added to the epoxy
- Resin and hardener were mixed poorly.
- The curing reaction has not occurred yet.
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- ThickSet epoxy may take 3-6 hours or longer for the curing reaction to begin. Wait at least 12 hours, ensuring that the ambient temperature is within the advised range.
- If the ThickSet has not increased in hardness or cured, remove any ThickSet that is not cured and start over.
- Take extra care to ensure ThickSet is always mixed at the proper ratio.
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| Epoxy seeped out of the corners or cracks of a mold |
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- ThickSet epoxy is a very low-viscosity, slow-curing epoxy. It will find any pinhole leaks in a mold and leak out. Seal molds thoroughly with tape, silicone, hot glue, or another form of sealant, prior to pouring ThickSet into the mold.
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| Cured ThickSet epoxy would not come out of the mold |
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- Insufficient mold release agent or a lack of mold release agent will make ThickSet difficult or virtually impossible to remove from a mold. Use mold release agents in all molds, regardless of their material. This will preserve the useful life of any molds used.
- When applying a mold release paste wax, always apply and polish out 4-5 coats of wax.
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