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Is there an encapsulating epoxy that will stay clear in the elements?

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https://sigforum.com/eve/forums/a/tpc/f/320601935/m/3390038015

September 13, 2024, 07:17 PM
Black92LX
Is there an encapsulating epoxy that will stay clear in the elements?
I don’t even know if encapsulating epoxy is a thing but it sounded cool in my brain.
I have a 2” round 3D decal I would like to suspend in the middle of a 2 1/4” circle of clear epoxy that is 1/8” thick.
This will see weather and I don’t want epoxy to turn yellow or brown. UV protection would be what I am looking for as well I guess. Hoping the decal won’t fade either.


Trying to recreate some center caps that are over $100 each.I found a 3D decal that is surprisingly really good quality but would not last in the elements.


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September 13, 2024, 07:25 PM
kkina
There are non-yellowing clear epoxies, but I've never personally tried any so don't have specific recommendations.



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September 13, 2024, 07:30 PM
sig operator
Maybe a 2-part marine epoxy, usually non yellowing and UV resistant. I have only seen it in larger sized containers though.
September 13, 2024, 07:42 PM
trapper189
I’ve used West System two-part marine epoxy, it is not UV resistant, and requires a finish coat for UV resistance. I fairly sure I used Minwax Polyurethane Varnish.
September 13, 2024, 08:59 PM
mdblanton
All of the epoxy resin embedding compounds that I’m familiar with are based on aromatic epoxies. As a result, they will yellow at some point in UV light - some less so than others and a non-yellowing clear coat will help.

There are acrylic embedding resins available but they typically aren’t inexpensive, usually costing much more than the part you’re trying to replicate, and aren’t as forgiving to work with as epoxies.

PM sent.
September 14, 2024, 07:12 AM
4MUL8R
https://entropyresins.com/prod...clear-casting-epoxy/


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Trying to simplify my life...
September 14, 2024, 07:13 AM
4MUL8R
https://www.fibreglast.com/pro...ep-pour-epoxy-1-inch


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Trying to simplify my life...