Polyester ISO Tooling/ Laminating Resin is a high-performance solution for projects requiring exceptional strength and durability. This superior-grade polyester resin is ideal for applications where you seek enhanced physical properties, such as improved bonding, moisture resistance, and tensile strength.  Pre-promoted for room temperature curing with the addition of methyl ethyl ketone peroxide (MEKP) catalyst. This resin leaves a surface tack that ensures optimal bonding between layers, saving you time and effort. There is no need to sand between layers. A wax additive such as surface seal or surfacing agent can be added to the resin for the final layer to ensure a hard, tack-free finish.

Popular Uses

-Fiberglass mold making

-Boat construction and repair

-General purpose fiberglass laminates

-Spray up and hand lay-up applications

Needed Supplies (this will vary depending on your project):

• Resin
• MEKP (methyl ethyl ketone peroxide) is required
• Fiberglass (if using)
• Brushes/rollers/spreader or squeegee
• Safety clothing- gloves, mask, eye protection
• Mixing/ measuring cups
• Stir sticks or paint paddle
• Cleaning supplies- rags, acetone etc.

Preparation

-Work in a well-ventilated area. ISO polyester tooling resin gives off strong fumes

-Wear proper safety clothing including gloves and a face mask

-Make sure the resin, room and the surface you are working on are heated up to room temperature.  The ideal temperature to work in is between 70-85 degrees Fahrenheit .

Application

-Make sure the surface is clean and free from contaminates before getting started. The surface may need to be roughed up before applying resin.

-Use a graduated mixing cup to measure the resin

-MEKP can be used between 1% and 2% by volume of resin but we recommend 1.25% to 1.75% depending on how long of a pot life and working time is desired. The more MEKP that is used, the shorter the pot life/ working time will be. The less MEKP that is used, the more pot life/ working time there will be. ISO tooling/laminating resin is promoted to gel in 17-23 minutes at 77°F when catalyzed at 1 percent (approx. 1 tsp per pint). You can find our MEKP catalyst quantity chart HERE.

-Mix resin and hardener thoroughly.

-Apply immediately to fiberglass or surface using brushes, fiberglass rollers, spreaders or squeegees.

-It is best to work in smaller batches

-Continue adding layers if needed. On the final layer, add surface seal for a hard tack free cure. (If adding a gel coat after, this is not necessary. Use a waxed gel coat for the final layer.)

-Cure at room temperature

Handling and Storage

Closed resin and MEKP containers should be stored in a cool, dry place. It should be stored at temperatures below 75°F and away from heat sources, sunlight and flames.

Important Notes

-Polyester ISO Tooling/Laminating resin cures with a surface tack which helps multiple layers to adhere to each other without sanding. A surface seal/wax can be added to the last layer to create a hard tack free finish.

-Do not add too much MEKP.  If too much hardener is added, the finished product can be prone to fractures or resin will become rubbery in the mixing cup.

-If you do not add enough MEKP, your laminate may never cure.

***Always try out a small test batch first.  Working with resin is more of an art than a science.