Epoxy pot life—Is there a formula based on amount of epoxy?

If 3 ozs of epoxy has a pot life of 60 minutes, is there a way to determine pot life for larger quantities, with temperature and container shape being constant? Also, for each 18 degree F temperature increase, gel time is reduced in half. How does this temp increase affect viscosity percentage? Thanks.

 

Depends too much on the shape of the "pot". Avoid shapes that concentrate the mass (Yes, it is possible to set epoxy on fire through catalyzation heat!) Wide shallow pans give the longest pot life for pre-coating. But really you should consider pre-preg and/or infusion if you need that much.

 

I won't give you any absolutes.

If you keep epoxy below 72F; the viscosity increases and around 60F becomes unworkable and drives higher content when worked for each degree.

If you drive epoxy above about 85F; the stuff does thin, but will kick quite easily.

The in between 72-80F is sort of the magic between workability and being thin enough to flow.

I always try to work the stuff between about 65-75 degrees; then sometimes increase ambient after the work to drive the cure.

I don't have anything other than experience, but below 72 and the epoxy I used went up in percentage in final product, so I always stored it up off the floor and heated the shop to 72F.

Your 18 degree question is outside my comfort.

One time, I heated epoxy over a water bath for neat coating, but maybe only 4-5 yards at 2 oz.

 

Thank you both for replying.