Additive

An additive is an intentionally used component in epoxy resin formulations that allows the properties of the resin system to be specifically adjusted and optimized. Additives are incorporated into epoxy resins in small quantities to control processing behavior, appearance, mechanical performance, or the durability of the final product.
In practice, additives play a crucial role in the development of high-quality epoxy systems, as they enable the material to be precisely tailored to the specific requirements of potting and adhesive applications.

Functions and benefits of additives in epoxy resins

• Processing behavior
  e.g. viscosity, flowability, bubble release performance, pot life, and leveling
• Surface properties
  e.g. scratch resistance, anti-stick effect, or smooth surfaces
• Optical effects
  e.g. transparency, color effects, UV stability
• Mechanical properties
  e.g. hardness, elasticity, impact resistance, and abrasion resistance
• Chemical resistance
  e.g. resistance to solvents, water, or chemicals
• Thermal properties
  e.g. heat resistance and heat deflection temperature
• Deaeration and bubble prevention
  through defoamers or wetting agents
• Adhesion
  improved bonding on various substrates
• Electrical properties
  e.g. insulation behavior, electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity

Typical additives for epoxy resins

Defoamers
Flow agents
UV stabilizers
Rheology additives
Adhesion promoters
Reactive diluents
Thixotropic agents