Practice Safe & Eco-friendly Epoxy Resin Use, Storage & Disposal…

Each week we here at Pro Marine explore the many ways that epoxy resin may be used for creative artistic projects, as a maintenance and repair tool around the home or office, and for automotive body and boat repair and fabrication and more on our weekly blog. (Not to mention the many corporate, industrial and high-technology applications…).

And while we’ve highlighted applications, instructions and a wide variety of ideas; it’s always good to also outline the safe handling, storing and disposal of products like epoxy resin. Handling this polymer in a “green” way is safer for both you and the environment, makes you feel good, and will yield better results for your epoxy resin projects:

• For instance, to minimize waste – mix epoxy resin in small batches at a time – and store unused product in sealed containers at room temperature for later use.
• Cured epoxy resin does not qualify as hazardous waste as it is classified as a non-hazardous solid – and may be disposed of as such. (check your local waste regulations)
• When working with epoxy resin – work in a well-ventilated area and wear gloves and eye protection.
• Dispose of used containers by emptying them of most of the resin and hardener (which hopefully you’ve put to good use on your projects) – and allowing the polymer to cure – then throw away with usual trash. (check your local waste regulations)

Become an Epoxy Resin Pro

“Boat builders, surfboard makers and fabricators of all kinds use epoxy every day to form strong, waterproof, lightweight structures. And you can take advantage of this versatile group of products around the home, too,” from ‘How to Use Epoxy Resin Like a Pro.’ “Unlike many other adhesives and fillers that require drying time, epoxies require two parts that, when mixed, begin a chemical reaction that causes the liquid or putty to harden. The amount of time you have to work with the two-part epoxy resin before it sets up is determined by the chemistry of the hardener.”

A thermosetting two-part polymer like epoxy resin makes a great material for myriad fun and useful projects! All that’s required are a few common-sense steps for safe handling, storing and disposal of (hopefully) minimal waste and containers – and you’re on your way!