Resin Addict Forum

Hello,

Where I live, the winters are long and cold. During the winter months, using normal resins indoors, even the so-called low-odor ones, is difficult if not impossible. Can anyone recommend a clear casting resin that is odorless and can be used where ventilation is limited or non-existent?

Thank you,
Bill

No, but perhaps you should invest in an appropriate respiration filter mask.

Use this whilst working with resins, then open doors and windows to your workspace.

Some resins and release agents are known to cause lung irritation (or worse!) and their PDS suggests breathing protection or well ventillated areas when working with them.

Don't put your health at risk for your hobby.

Thank you. Of course, that wasn't the answer I was hoping for, but I appreciate your frankness.

Bill

Sorry, but I don't know any resins that have no smell whatsoever.

I doubt they exist.

Having just buried a Father-in-Law who died of Mesothielioma from Asbestos exposure at work, has made me think a little more about the safety aspect of what we do.

Some clear Polyurethane resins are quite low odour, perhaps have a go at them if you have been using the far more evil acrylic resins with the MEPK catalyst?

RE "Some clear Polyurethane resins are quite low odour."

Thanks for that idea. Are there any downsides to using poly; particularly, when dried are they as transparent as the acrylics?

Bill

Have a look here:

viewtopic.php?f=3&t=226

By the sounds of it, you have been using acrylic resin with the MEKP catalyst?

No wonder you are complaining of the smell when used indoors!

The TL/DR version:

For most polyurethane resins you will need pressure and vacuum casting ability. For another product, like Glass Coat or Envirotex, you will not.

"For another product, like Glass Coat or Envirotex, you will not."

Will those products work in a situation where you are pouring the product into a casting mold that you want to reuse?

Bill

Yes, but they will have very long curing times - up to several days before they reach final strength/rigidity. IIRC you will need 48 hours or so before you can demould.