Hi there. I'm using a polyamine epoxy hardener with nanoclay as filler. I used vacuum oven and heating, but, due to low pot life of the hardener, these methods don't work. Could you give me applicable instructions to get rid of the bubbles?
if you are initiating curing with heat supply instead of room temp conditions, you can try degassing initially for a few min and then cure in vacuum condition
To address the bubble issue while considering the low pot life of your polyamine epoxy hardener, here are some strategies you can try:
1. Pre-degassing the Components
Degas the resin and hardener separately under vacuum before mixing. This reduces the amount of entrapped air introduced during mixing.
2. Gentle Mixing
Stir the mixture slowly and in a circular motion to minimize air entrapment. Avoid aggressive or fast mixing.
3. Use of a Pressure Pot
After mixing, pour the epoxy into a pressure pot and pressurize it to 40–60 psi. This compresses the bubbles, making them too small to be visible.
4. Warming the Resin
Slightly warm the resin (not the hardener) before mixing. This reduces its viscosity, allowing bubbles to escape more easily. However, avoid excessive heat that might accelerate curing.
5. Thin Pour Layers
If feasible, pour the epoxy in thin layers rather than a single thick layer. This gives bubbles more time to rise and escape before the material cures.
6. Bubble Breakers
Use a heat gun or propane torch (at a safe distance) over the surface of the poured epoxy to pop surface bubbles.
7. Vacuum Degassing After Mixing
Place the mixed epoxy in a vacuum chamber for a short time (if possible within the pot life). Be careful not to over-degas, as rapid bubbling can cause the mixture to overflow.
8. Consider an Additive
Incorporate a defoamer or surfactant designed for epoxy systems. These additives can help break up bubbles.
If you can share more about your specific setup or constraints, I can tailor these suggestions further!