EPOXY RESIN STRENGTHENING PROCESS OF NATURAL STONES IN MULTI-LAYER OVENS

The epoxy process consists of the following stages; Drying of the slabs, Epoxy application, Curing of the epoxy.

DRYING PROCESS

  • The drying process is carried out by placing the slab/strip inside the multi-layer oven unit.
  • Proper temperature and strong air circulation are applied. The drying ovens must completely remove the moisture from the slabs.
  • This depends on several factors: Type of drying system, Slab thickness, External temperature, Relative humidity, Water absorption coefficient of the stone.
  • The drying time varies between a minimum of 60 minutes and a maximum of 120 minutes.
  • The air temperature inside the oven ranges between 45° and 60°C.
  • The slab temperature before leaving the oven should be between 35° and 45°C.

EPOXY APPLICATION

  • Epoxy is a two-component bonding material. The application varies according to the stone’s color, vein, porosity, and strength characteristics.
  • For stones that require structural repair, epoxy consumption is between 200 g/m² and 500 g/m², while for surface enhancement it is between 150 g/m² and 200 g/m².

FIBERGLASS MESH APPLICATION

  • This process is applied to the back surfaces of the slabs using fiberglass mesh.
  • After laying the mesh over the slab, epoxy is applied.
  • This provides additional reinforcement to the slab.

CURING

  • This process is carried out by storing the slabs inside a curing oven.
  • For an optimal curing operation, the recommended oven temperature should be between 45° and 60°C.
  • The curing time may vary depending on the type of product, ranging between 60 and 150 minutes at 40°C.
EPOXY RECIPE