Difference Between Epoxy & Epoxy Novolacs

Epoxies are thermoset polymers that are commonly used as coatings or adhesives. Epoxy adhesives are strong and can easily accommodate the rigorous demands of commercial and industrial applications. Epoxy coatings are similarly tough and can protect underlying materials from impact damage or environmental wear. They form exceptionally hard, strong outer surfaces, and some epoxies can even act as electrical insulators. For any product or project, it’s important to choose the right epoxy coating for the materials, intended environment, and application. Learn more about the differences between epoxy novolacs and standard epoxies.

What Is an Epoxy Novolac?

Epoxies are generally sorted into four main categories:

• Polyamide epoxies that use a reactive polyamide resin to cure
• Polyamine epoxies that are well-known for chemical resistance and hardness
• Phenolic epoxies that pair an epoxy resin with a phenolic resin and cure together with the application of heat
• Epoxy novolacs that provide exceptional temperature and chemical resistance

Epoxy novolacs are some of the most advanced epoxies available, offering benefits such as easy application, less odor, low permeability, and more. Depending on the specific formulation, epoxy novolacs either require heat to fully cure or can cure at room temperature. This type of epoxy is commonly used for applications requiring high levels of corrosion, temperature, and chemical resistance. 

Epoxy novolacs are valued for their excellent resistance to damage when exposed to commercial and industrial-strength acids and other chemicals. They can also handle the higher temperature levels without degrading or losing their positive characteristics.

The Advantages of Epoxy Novolacs

Every family of epoxies offers different strengths and positive attributes that make them a good fit for different practical applications, so it’s important to choose the right epoxy for your specific needs. Some of the unique advantages of epoxy novolacs include:

Superior Bonding Characteristics

Epoxy novolacs have an excellent bond strength. That means the material will cling tightly to the outer surface layer of the substrate it is applied to, making it less likely to chip off or wear away. Not only does this ensure longer-lasting performance, but it also means a thinner coat of epoxy novolac will be just as (or even more) effective than thicker applications.

Better Chemical Resistance

Epoxy novolacs do not react to these chemicals, both resisting damage and reducing the risk of chemical degradation and contamination. This resistance applies to both oxidizing and non-oxidizing acids.

Increased Heat Resistance

Epoxy novolacs have a more cross-linked polymer than most other epoxy compounds. This increases their thermal resistance (though it may also result in higher curing temperatures for some compounds).

Cost Savings

Epoxy novolacs have a higher initial price tag than many other epoxies, but their long-lasting attributes and unique strengths make them a cost-effective option.

Choose Epoxy Novolac From APCM

Epoxy coatings make surfaces harder, stronger, and more resistant to damage, but it’s important to choose the right option. Epoxy novolacs are resistant to chemical and temperature damage, and they offer long-lasting durability. At APCM, we specialize in prepregs and adhesives for commercial and industrial applications. Contact us today to learn more about our materials and services.