This 2kg kit comprises of 1kg of each component (Resin & Hardener). Coverage up to 5sq.m.
TOTALCAST RESINS: FAQ
1. Are TotalCast Resins safe to use without a mask or breathing apparatus?
Yes these resins are safe to use at ambient temperatures as they are VOC-free, low odour, non-flammable and contain no solvents.
TotalCAST and resi-Blast have both been awarded ASTM certification as a non-hazardous and non-toxic artwork resin.
2. How long will the resin last in unopened / opened containers?
12 months in both cases.
3. Do I need to wear safety clothing / equipment when working with resin?
Whilst TotalCast resins are safe and user-friendly please be aware that they still consist of industrial chemicals. We always advise that you observe good industrial hygiene: that you wear gloves when using the resins; that you wear long-sleeved clothing; and that you do not eat, drink or smoke near the resin. In ambient temperature conditions you will not need to wear breathing apparatus or a mask.
4. How do I measure and mix it?
The ratio of the resins is 1:1 by weight or volume. Mix by stirring for approximately 3 minutes until the mixture has a uniform texture and consistency. Use the spatula to scrape the inside of the mixing container whilst stirring to free up any material which could be sticking to the inside walls with static. Once mixed do not leave in the mixing vessel for more than 4-5 mins as it will exotherm quickly in a small volumetric space, which builds heat and cures rapidly.
5. What is the coverage rate?
TotalCast clear artwork resin will cover 1 square metre per 500g of mixed resin (10.7 square foot per 18oz).
6. How do air bubbles occur and how do I get rid of them?
All Eli Chem Resins are de-gassed before they are filled, so any air that enters the mixture is caused solely by hand-stirring. The vortex caused by stirring pulls air into the blend. Once you have poured the resin mixture over your surface, immediately pass hot air from a blowtorch, heat gun or hairdryer over it, to dissipate bubbles. Eli Chem also add a special Air Release Agent into the formulation which should help to expel micro-bubbles automatically.
7. If I add more Hardener will the resin cure faster?
No it will not cure quicker - in fact it will not cure at all. The speed of cure is not regulated by the amount of hardener; it is controlled by the amount of accelerator which the manufacturer adds into both components during the production stage. Please do not deviate from the pre-set 1:1 mix ratio. To accelerate the curing process you can pre-heat the components and mix them while warm.
8. How come the levels are slightly different in the Resin and Hardener bottles?
Eli Chem fill all of their kits by weight. Because the density of the resin and hardener is different, it means they occupy a slightly different volumetric space. 1kg of resin is around 950ml in volume but 1kg of hardener is 1 liter in volume; that's why the levels look marginally different. The Hardener component will always have a slightly the higher level in the bottle, as it is less dense than the Resin component.
If you measure 1:1 by weight then you will finish both components at the same time. If you mix 1:1 by volume it will still work but you may end up with slightly more Hardener. Either way Eli Chem have built in a margin of error of 15% so that you can make mistakes to this tolerance and the resin will still cure normally.
9. Can I color this resin?
Yes, but some pigments and mediums will not mix well with TotalCast resins. Acrylic-based color in paste or ink format is perfect. Waterbased colors are not advised, as the resin is a synthetic material and water-based binders wont disperse uniformly in it. Oil based colors are not recommended, as the trapped solvents in the oils will oxidise in resin and turn it yellow. Alcohol-based colors will function as a pigment but the alcohol will also cause repelling in the resin. This can be used to create visual effects, but it is an unpredictable means of coloring your resin mix. Powdered pigments will each mix differently with the resin, depending on their chemical make-up.
Alternatively, you can make your resin glow in the dark by mixing in Eli Glow Photoluminescent Pigment Powders. A tutorial can be found on the product page of the pigments.
As with all resins, this is very sticky - we advise that you wear disposable gloves while using the product.
