What is Resin?

In simple terms, a resin is a material that usually begins as a liquid and can be turned into a solid, plastic-like material.

In flooring, the resin is supplied as part of a system. It is normally mixed with another component, such as a hardener or activator. Mixing the components starts a chemical reaction known as curing.

As the resin cures, it changes from a liquid into a strong, solid surface. This is not simply a case of the material drying. Its chemical structure is changing and new molecular bonds are being formed.

Is resin the same as plastic?

Resin, polymer and plastic are closely related terms, but they do not mean exactly the same thing.

• Polymer describes the chemical structure. It consists of many smaller molecules joined into long chains or networks.

• Plastic is a broad name for solid materials made mainly from polymers.

• Resin is the liquid or formulated starting material used to create the finished polymer

  surface.

  
  

An easy way to remember the relationship is:

Resin is the starting material. Polymer describes what forms as it cures. The finished result is a type of plastic.

Why are there different types of resin?

Different resin chemistries produce different properties.

One resin might cure into a very hard surface, while another may remain slightly flexible. Some are better at resisting chemicals, impacts, heat, sunlight or changes in temperature.

Common resins used in flooring include:

• Epoxy

• Polyurethane

• MMA, or methyl methacrylate

These are not simply different brand names. They are different types of chemistry, each with its own strengths, limitations and suitable uses.

What is a resin floor?

A resin floor is created by applying a liquid resin system to a prepared surface and allowing it to chemically cure.

Once cured, the separate liquid ingredients have become a continuous, solid floor finish. Depending on the system, it can be smooth or textured, decorative or functional, thinly applied or built up into a much thicker protective layer.

So, in its simplest form:

A resin floor begins as a liquid mixture and cures to become a solid, durable, plastic-like surface.