From time to time we are asked, "Why is ArtResin more expensive than X brand of epoxy resin?" Good question.
In short, ArtResin performs in ways that no other epoxy resin does, namely in terms of clarity/longevity and safety. ArtResin is unique in that:
- it preserves your art by staying clear for the longterm.
- it preserves your health by not emitting toxic fumes.
- ArtResin was designed to meet the needs of artists.
Allow us to elaborate...
1. Third-party testing demonstrates ArtResin's longterm clarity superiority
Images courtesy of ATLAS Labs
The above data from Atlas Labs shows the results of accelerated weathering on 17 different epoxy resin samples. Accelerated weathering testing (ASTM E1131) involves full exposure to outdoor UV light (in this case under the Arizona sun) in order to speed up the resins' natural yellowing process to understand how they can be expected to perform over time under normal (i.e. indoor) conditions. The data demonstrates that ArtResin is the clearest product of all those surveyed, with virtually no visible change detected to the naked eye and only marginal quantifiable change observed via a spectrophotometer after 8 weeks.
How is it that ArtResin is the clear winner?
We use only the highest grade raw materials and we test each one for purity before introducing them into a batch of product. Doing so allows us to achieve exceptionally clear (i.e. as clear as water) resin and hardener from the outset. Additionally, we utilize a proprietary blend of specialized light stabilizing additives in our ArtResin formula to maintain its unparalleled clarity. Whereas some resin brands will advertise that they include a UV stabilizer, a simple UV stabilizer alone will not prevent yellowing but merely delay it by 6 months to a year under normal conditions.
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2. ArtResin contains no VOCs, no fumes, is non-toxic when used as directed and food-safe.
Whereas most (if not all) epoxy resins on the market are highly toxic, ArtResin contains no VOCs, no fumes, is classified as non-hazardous, non-flammable in its liquid form, and experiences zero shrinkage. The reason for this is simple: we use only the highest quality raw materials and absolutely no cheap fillers, non-reactive diluents or solvents. The result is that everything in our formula reacts together upon being catalyzed, forming strong complete bonds. Whereas most commercial resins include fillers to stretch the material and drive the cost down, we recognize the downside to these, that there is a high cost to consumer health and the longevity of the resin if fillers are used. When fillers and diluents are used, there is nothing for these materials to bond to in the chemical reaction, so harmful materials called volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, are released from the mixture into the air. It's for this reason that most epoxy resins are required to have explicit warning labels on their packaging and require the use of a respirator/protective gear, so users avoid breathing in these noxious fumes/VOCs. Additionally, cheap fillers are often flammable and cause shrinkage in the cured resin product—again, ArtResin experiences none of these issues. For this reason, ArtResin has been deemed by an ASTM board-designated toxicologist as conforming to ASTM D4236 standards, meaning it is considered safe for home use when used in a well ventilated area.
Once fully cured, ArtResin is food safe. ArtResin was vigorously tested by a third party for leaching and migration across 13 different worldwide standards and passed every test: when used as directed, cured ArtResin will not leach any substances into food that comes into contact with it.
Please read our SDS for more information.
💡 Want to learn how to interpret an SDS? Our blog How Dangerous Is Your Epoxy Resin? walks you through an SDS, section by section.
3. ArtResin has been designed specifically to meet the needs of creative applications.
There are all kinds of epoxy resin products on the market that fulfill certain areas of need; for example, other brands tout their adhesive strength, 5 minute cure time, low cost, etc. As artists, we tried many of these resin products while searching for an ideal resin product to use on our artwork... only to realize it didn't exist at the time. ArtResin was developed in response to the limitations (from an artist's perspective) of these other brands—it was created to offer the longterm protection against yellowing and non-toxic advantages that artists want for their work.
In addition, we have artists on staff who are available to help you with all your creative questions. We provide the BEST resin and best service, inspire ideas and entertain!
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TOLL FREE: 1-877-401-4001
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If you are already an ArtResin customer, thank you! Please share this information with your colleagues and clients, to instil confidence in the longevity of their purchases.
If you have not used ArtResin, we hope we've given you two great reasons here to encourage you to give it a try!
