Epoxy glue
Epoxy glue
Epoxy glue is an extremely strong adhesive, used e.g. for building airplanes, automobiles, bicycles, boats, snowboards and other products that require high strength bonds. Commonly available in hardware stores is the 5 minute epoxy glue, a two component glue that comes in a tube with two different compartments. One is a resin, the other one a curing agent. When the two are mixed, they turn ito a strong plastic material.
Cured epoxy poses few health risks, but liquid and partially cured epoxies, as well as dust from sanding introduce numerous health threats that need to be managed as efficiently as possible.
Good news is that because of a growing demand, bio epoxy resins are becoming more commonly available nowadays.
The life cycle |
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High energy Two components epoxy has the highest embodied energy of all glues, about five times that of wood glue.
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High footprint Both components of 2-parts epoxy glue, epoxy and amine curing agent, are produced in polluting chemical processes
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Quick Various epoxy glues have different curing times. The commonly available two component epoxy from hardware stores dries within 5 minutes. |
Toxicity Epoxy glues are highly toxic in production. The resins and solvents in the liquid glue produce fumes that can affect the skin and lungs (1). Another risk is posed by fine dust from sanding (partially) cured epoxy.
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Costly Epoxy is expensive. In woodworking it is only used for small repairs in high performance products such as boats or snowboards.
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Bulky Glued wooden constructions are non disassemblable so they take more space, which increases energy use in transportation.
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Non toxic When cured, epoxy is rather safe for the user, it doesn't emit toxic fumes. It may leaches small quantities of hardeners and other toxic compounds through hydrolysis (exposure to water) and photolysis (exposure to direct sunlight). The amount of resin used as a connector is normally small and is not directly exposed to water and sunlight (especially when it is indoor). Long lifespan Very high performance, weather and water resistant glue. Sticks to almost any material. |
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Difficult recycling Do not discard tins or pour epoxy glue into the drain, epoxy components are hazardous waste. Epoxy also emits toxic fumes in incineration.
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Links
Eco info
Dated but excellent Epoxy health factsheet
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Other Connections
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Examples on Harvestmap.org