Vinyl ester resins are modern chemical materials that combine the best properties of epoxy and polyester resins. This makes them durable, chemically and mechanically resistant, and relatively easy to apply.
In this article, you will learn:
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what vinyl ester resin is,
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where it is used,
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what products are available in our offer,
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which solution to choose – Polimal VE or Atlac 580 – depending on your needs.
What is vinyl ester resin?
Vinyl ester resin is a thermosetting polymer formed by the reaction of epoxy resin with acrylic or methacrylic acid. This combination offers:
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high chemical resistance (acids, alkalis, solvents),
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greater flexibility than epoxies,
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good adhesion to concrete, metal, and laminates,
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resistance to moisture, osmosis, and corrosion, which is particularly valued in the marine industry.
What is vinyl ester resin used for?
Vinyl ester resins are used where durability and resistance to harsh conditions are required.
Construction and Industrial Flooring
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protecting concrete substrates in warehouses and chemical plants,
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creating chemical-resistant floors,
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primer and intermediate layers in flooring systems.
Marine and Composite Industry
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production and repair of boats and yachts (including those made of epoxy laminates),
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molds for fiberglass-reinforced plastics,
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resistance to osmosis and seawater.
Tanks and Chemical Installations
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internal tank linings,
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anti-corrosion coatings for pipelines and industrial installations.
Polimal VE – Universal Vinyl Ester Resin
Polimal VE (CIECH Sarzyna) is a product proven in construction and industry.
Advantages of Polimal VE:
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chemical and thermal resistance (100–120°C),
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low shrinkage and minimal risk of cracking,
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good adhesion to concrete, metal, and laminates,
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can also be used at lower application temperatures,
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versatility – from flooring to laminate and boat repairs.
Atlac 580 – For Particularly Demanding Environments
Atlac 580 is a vinyl ester resin designed for demanding industrial and marine conditions.
Advantages of Atlac 580:
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exceptionally high chemical resistance (also to strong acids and solvents),
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thermal resistance above 120°C,
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very low water absorption,
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excellent durability in industrial installations and marine environments,
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recommended for tanks, refineries, power plants, and large laminates.
Differences in Application and Temperatures
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Polimal VE – can be used at lower ambient temperatures, making it easier to work with in autumn and winter.
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Atlac 580 – requires more stable application conditions (ideally above 18°C), but provides greater long-term resistance.
Polimal VE or Atlac 580 – Which Resin Should You Choose?
| Feature | Polimal VE (CIECH Sarzyna) | Atlac 580 |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical resistance | Very good | Exceptionally high |
| Thermal resistance | 100–120°C | Above 120°C |
| Water absorption | Low | Very low |
| Application conditions | Can be used at lower temperatures | Requires stable conditions above 18°C |
| Applications | Flooring, tanks, boat repair, laminates | Chemical installations, refineries, power plants, marine environments |
Both resins are equally good – they differ in their range of applications. The choice depends on the project and the operating conditions of the material.
How to cure vinyl ester resin?
The following are used for curing:
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MEKP (methyl ethyl ketone peroxide) – e.g., Butanox M-50,
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at a dosage of 1.5–2.5% by weight (according to the technical data sheet),
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optionally cobalt accelerators to speed up the reaction.
Summary
Vinyl ester resin is a material with a wide range of applications in construction, industry, and the marine sector.
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Polimal VE – versatile, easy to apply, also suitable for lower temperatures and boat repairs.
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Atlac 580 – designed for demanding industrial conditions, refineries, power plants, or marine installations, where the highest resistance to chemicals and temperature is crucial.
Both products are available in our store at Gaz-Bud.pl