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EZ-Poly FAQ
Answers to the Most Common Questions |
Is EZ-Poly an Epoxy? No. EZ-Poly is NOT an Epoxy.
EZ-Poly is a two part polyurethane based adhesive that has more in common
(chemically at least) with Gorilla Glue and Elmer's Pro Bond than with epoxy.
Is EZ-Poly as Strong as Epoxy? Not Generally. Many epoxies are
used in making air craft bodies. We wouldn't recommend making planes out of EZ-Poly. The
strength of EZ-Poly is more in line with concrete rather than epoxy.
Can I Work with EZ-Poly While It is Curing? Yes. EZ-Poly
changes it's consistency over time. When first mixed together EZ-Poly is liquid enough to
pour into the smallest cracks. After 5 minutes EZ-Poly becomes like a paste that can be
applied to vertical surfaces. Between 10-40 minutes EZ-Poly is like a clay or putty that
can be trimmed or carved to reduce sanding time. At only 2 hours EZ-Poly is like a piece
of wood that can be worked with power tools such as disc sanders, drills and lathes.
Does EZ-Poly Stick to Itself? Yes. EZ-Poly forms a seamless
bond when applied directly to itself. NO surface preparation is needed and it bonds to
itself at any time during its curing cycle.
Does EZ-Poly have any Flammable Vapors? No EZ-Poly has NO
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and Negligible Volatile Inorganic Compounds.
In other words, there are no fumes, no vapors, no breathing hazards. A pleasant
change from other pungent smells in epoxy products.
Is EZ-Poly Safe? Yes. We are at least as safe as other
polyurethane based adhesives. In fact we have much less MDI (the chemical compound in
polyurethanes that is generally of concern) than the leading polyurethane glues.
Does EZ-Poly Work Underwater? Yes. EZ-Poly can be poured into
water to form an underwater bond, or it can be applied underwater while it is in the paste
stage.
Can EZ-Poly be Colored? Yes. EZ-Poly can be colored with any
grout coloring power. You can also use titanium dioxide to color it white. Use colored
powders, form your local art supply store, to get a wide variety of colors. Water soluble
aniline dye can be used to give EZ-Poly a rock-like appearance.
Can EZ-Poly be Painted? Yes. EZ-Poly can be painted and
stained. We have not tried out every possible paint or stain, but we have found that water
based paints and stains work much better. If you run into a paint or stain that does not
take, apply a layer of wood putty or Bondo to give it a surface to grab onto. You may also
need to experiment with different (probably water based) primers.
What Happens to EZ-Poly at Low Temperatures? It Gets Cold.
But, more seriously, unlike just about every other two-part adhesive, when it begins to
thaw it will continue to cure. We've done this little interrupted curing experiment using
dry ice since EZ-Poly does not freeze until it is well below zero degrees Fahrenheit.
What Does Extended Curing Time Mean? EZ-Poly changes it's properties
from a liquid (0-5 minutes) that flows into the smallest cracks, to a paste (5-10 minutes)
that can be used on vertical surfaces, then to a moldable clay material (10-30 minutes)
that can be cut or trimmed without altering its strength. EZ-Poly then hardens to the
consistency of hardwood in about two hours. When cured EZ-Poly can be cut, sanded,
drilled, shaved, painted, stained, turned on a lathe, and even nailed without shattering.
EZ-Poly is fully cured in 24 hours. This extended curing time allows you the flexibility
you need to make your project right the first time. |