Do resins, semi perm releases, etc deteriorate with age?

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#1

So I found some supplies that I had not used in 4 yrs.

Some epoxy that has not been used and says that the best by is some time in 2010, there is no crystallization of the components, neither have ever been opened.

I have some loctite semi perm sealer and release.

I have several rolls of sealant tape aswell.

Any idea if these are garbage or still good?
Thanks

#2

Semi permanents usually have a shelf life of 1 year unopeneding, much less after open. Epoxy is usually between 1-2 years. Sealant tape I believe is 6 months, and much longer if kept frozen. Depending on what you are making, you can test out the epoxy and see how well it hardens, if nothing structural it would probably be fine to use. For the release I would not use, not worth sticking a part to a mold. Sealant tape use at your own risk, if you are infusion then you risk a bad part from leaks.

#3

I never experienced problems with epoxy.

Releases are tricky, I would not use them anymore.

Sealant tape should not be a problem, as long as the tape did not pick up dirt and dust. Do a test though, some tapes harden over time. (but not all)

#4

Thanks guys!

#5

Anyone know where I can get pint size FMS and 700-NC, I have spent hours on the net and cant find a seller?

#6

http://www.sollercomposites.com/composites/tools.html

#7

Thanks Hojo,

I even looked at soller but I didn’t see it, thanks for the link :wacko:

#8

You have to call soller to get the FMS sealer. They usually have it in stock. I don’t remember seeing it on their website though.

#9

Is there a difference in function between water soluble semi perms out there? I have used the FMS/700NC in the past with good success but a non VOC with liess stink would be nice if it performs well…

#10

I have only tried Zyvax EnviroShield. After some testing I promptly went back to Frekote 770-nc. This is just my experience, with my resins, and my processes. Others out there may have different experiences.

#11

I work in a College and cannot afford to get small quantities of semi-perm everytime it goes beyond its life - I use 700NC and it is more than a year out of date. It still works so Im still using it! It does give a less than perfect surface finish (v minor imperfections) i think in this state but it still works perfectly

#12

thanks I appreciate that info!

I still have mine kicking around and will be testing it out to see how it works. Mine is quite old though. If it does work I will only even consider using it in old well used molds. If I make anything more $$$ then I will likely buy a new batch. you are right though, a pair of Pint cans would cost about $80-90 shipped to my door :frowning:

#13

I have had semi-permanent (Frekote 770-nc) go bad and cause a small mold and plug to get ruined. I did a side-by-side test on a scrap with the old on one side and the new on the other. The old stuck and the new release perfectly.