Resins
Resins
Resins are part of the natural or synthetic organic compound.
The natural resins are typically fusible and flammable organic substances that are transparent or translucent and are yellowish to brown in colour. They are formed in plant secretions and are soluble in various organic liquids but not in water.
Plant resins are valued for the production of varnishes, adhesives and food glazing agents. They are also prized as raw materials for the synthesis of other organic compounds and provide constituents of incense and perfume.
The synthetic resins comprise a large class of synthetic products that have some of the physical properties of natural resins but are different chemically.
Many materials are produced via the conversion of synthetic resins to solids.
The most common synthetic resins will be Acrylic, Epoxy and Polyurethane.
Types of key resins technologies and their uses:
Synthetic resins have several classes. Some are manufactured by the esterification of organic compounds. Some resins are more like thermosetting plastics in which the term "resin" is loosely applied to the reactant or product, or both. The term "resin" may be applied to one of two monomers in a copolymer, the other being called a "hardener.” For thermosetting plastics that only have one monomer, the sole monomer compound is called the "resin." For example, liquid methyl methacrylate is generally called the "resin" or "casting resin" when it’s in a liquid or viscous state before it polymerizes and "sets." The subsequent polymethyl methacrylate is often renamed acrylic glass or just acrylic.
Acrylic Resins
Acrylic resins are related thermoplastic or thermosetting plastic substances created from acrylic and methacrylic acids or other related compounds. They are clear with good tensile strength. Acrylic resins are impact and UV resistant. They are used for structural and decorative panels, adhesives, elastomers, coatings, signs, and translucent tiles.
Alkyd Resins
Alkyd resins are thermoplastic polyester resins created by heating polyhydric alcohols with polybasic acids. They have excellent electrical and thermal properties and good chemical resistance. They are low cost and used for electrical insulation, electronic components, putty fillers, and paints.
Epoxy Resins
Epoxy resins, also called polyepoxides, are a type of reactive prepolymers and polymers which contain epoxide groups. They have excellent chemical and heat resistance and strong adhesion properties. They are used for laminates, adhesives, flooring, linings, propellers, and surface coatings.
Phenolic Resins
Phenolic resins are a type of thermosetting resin. They are strong, heat and impact resistant and have a high resistance to chemical corrosion and the penetration of moisture. Phenolic resins are machined easily. They are used for resin impregnation, brake linings, electrical components, laminate, adhesives for cement, bonded adhesives, and molds.
Polyamide Resins
Polyamide resins contain an amide group as a recurring part of their molecular chains. They are easily molded, strong and resistant, and lightweight. They have a low friction coefficient and are abrasion and chemical resistant. They are used for nonlubricated bearings, fibers, gears, sutures, tires, watchbands, packaging, and bottles.
Polycarbonate Resins
Polycarbonate resins are thermoplastics generally developed from bisphenol A and phosgene. They have a high refractive index, electrical and thermal dimensional stability, resistance to staining, and resistance to filtration. They are used for metal replacements, safety helmets, lenses, electrical components, photography film, and insulators.
Polyester Resins
Polyester resins are formed from the reaction of dibasic organic acids and polyhydric alcohols. They are very flexible and have excellent resistance to heat, chemicals, and flame. They tend to be low cost. They are used for construction, laminate, auto-repair of fillers, skis, fishing rods, plane and ship components, coatings, decorative accessories, and bottles.
Polyethylene Resins
Polyethylene resins are the most common type of resin, with over 100 million tons produced annually. They have strong chemical and steam or moisture resistance and a high degree of flexibility. They are used for packaging for laminates and films, containers, cable insulation, coatings, toys, molds, linings, and pipes and tubes.
Polypropylene Resins
Polypropylene resins are a type of thermoplastic polymer resin that does not contain BPA. They are colorless and tasteless, with a low density and good heat resistance. They can be sterilized, so they're often used with medical equipment. Polypropylene resins also have good chemical resistance. They are used for toys, electronic components, pipe and production tubing, fibers and filaments, and coatings.
Polystyrene Resins
Polystyrene resins are aromatic hydrocarbon polymers made from the monomer styrene. They are low cost and easy to produce, with excellent resistance to acids, alkalis, and salts. Polystyrene resins also have good clarity and flexibility. They are used for insulation, pipes, foams, cooling towers, rubber, automotive instruments, and dashboards.
Polyurethane Resins
Polyurethane resins are copolymers made up of polyol and isocyanate components. They are very versatile when combined with other resins, and have a high film elasticity and adhesion to substrates. Polyurethane resins also have a good balance of elongation and hardness. They are used for insulation, elastomers, adhesives, and foam liners for clothing.
Silicone Resins
Silicone resins used to be created with sodium silicate and various chlorosilanes, but now they are often formed with the less reactive tetraethoxysilane or ethyl polysilicate and several disiloxanes. They have good thermal and oxidative stability and are flexible and water repellent. Silicone resins form hard films because of their three-dimensional network structure. They are used for rubber, laminates, encapsulated resins, defoamers, and water-resistant applications.
Key Sources: Wikipedia & www.thomasnet.com