Decorative epoxy turns the floor into a fluid canvas. Born in industry for its indestructibility, it has become a protagonist of interior design thanks to its ability to incorporate pigments, metallic powders and objects, creating continuous flooring with a liquid, monolithic aesthetic.
Epoxy resin is formulated by cold-mixing two components: the base resin (Part A) and the hardener (Part B). The exothermic reaction transforms the liquid into a solid thermosetting polymer with a working time (pot-life) of about 30-40 minutes. Unlike microcement, epoxy is poured with a notched squeegee and self-levels by gravity, creating perfectly mirror-like, smooth surfaces free of the artisanal signature typical of trowelled finishes.
Being a rigid polymer with very high cohesion, epoxy resin does not tolerate structural movements of the substrate. Moreover, epoxy resins tend to yellow (colour shift) under UV rays. For this reason, in exposed architectural projects, an aliphatic polyurethane top-coat is always applied, completely immune to yellowing and more resistant to surface micro-scratching.
Standards
European and international references applicable.
Physical properties
Usage environment
Epoxy resin creates an absolute vapour barrier. If the concrete screed is not perfectly dry (residual humidity below 3%), osmotic pressure will cause blistering and delamination.