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How to Use Fiberglass Chopped Strand Mat with Polyester Resin: A Step-by-Step Guide
Polyester resin, the most widely used resin on the market is easy to use and wets out fast. It's excellent when used with fiberglass, wood, coring materials or metal. Polyester resin comes in several different classes including DCPD, Ortho and ISO.
Recommended Applications:
✔ Boat building and repair
✔ Cars, trucks and RV repairs
✔ Sealing wood
✔ Sculpture
✔ General purpose fiberglass projects
✔ Filling large holes, cracks, and leaks
How to Use Fiberglass Chopped Strand Mat with Polyester Resin
Preparation:
Clean the Surface: Ensure the surface is clean, dry, and free of dust, grease, or any contaminants.
Safety Gear: Wear protective safety gear including gloves, safety glasses and respirator.
Cut the Mat: Cut the fiberglass mat to the desired size, allowing for overlap if necessary.
Mixing the Resin:
Measure the Resin: Pour the required amount of polyester resin into a mixing container.
Add Hardener: Add the appropriate amount of MEKP hardener to the resin. The usual ratio is typically 1-2% by volume, but always refer to the instructions on your kit.
Mix Thoroughly: Stir the mixture thoroughly until it is well-blended.
Applying the Resin:
First Layer: Apply a layer of mixed resin to the surface using a brush or roller. If working with wood, a seal coat is recommended before adding fiberglass. This is because wood tends to soak up lots of resin that could lead to dry spots in the fiberglass when laminating.
Lay the Mat: Place the pre-cut fiberglass mat onto the wet resin.
Saturate the Mat: Apply more resin on top of the mat, using a brush or roller to ensure the mat is fully saturated. Use a stippling motion to eliminate air bubbles and ensure good adhesion.
Curing:
Smooth the Surface: Smooth out the fiberglass mat, ensuring it conforms to the surface and there are no air bubbles.
More Layers: If more layers are needed to get the desired thickness or strength, add another layer once resin starts to gel.
Let It Cure: Once done, allow the resin to cure. The curing time can vary from 4 hours to 24 hours depending on the temperature and humidity.
Tips for Optimal Results:
UV Protection: Make sure your project is protected from direct UV radiation during the curing process, as this can negatively affect its structure.
Why True Composites Fiberglass Resin Kit?
✅ GRADE A Quality: Trusted by the marine industry for its premium products.
✅ Fast Curing: Achieves a fully cured state in just 4 to 24 hours, depending on temperature.
✅ Tack-Free Drying: Our DCPD-type resin dries tack-free without the need for wax.
✅ Multiple Applications: Ideal for marine, aerospace, FRP parts, auto body repairs, and more, on wood, fiberglass, or metal.
Upgrade your repair projects with the True Composites Fiberglass Repair Kit and experience unmatched quality and performance. Visit our store to explore various sizes and combinations tailored to your needs.