As a subject matter expert in material science with a focus on polymers and adhesives, I've had extensive experience in evaluating the properties of various materials, including epoxies. Epoxy resins are a family of thermosetting polymers that are widely used in coatings, adhesives, and composite materials due to their excellent mechanical properties, chemical resistance, and electrical insulation capabilities.

Epoxy resins, in general, are not considered to be flammable in their solid, cured state. This is because they have a high ignition temperature and do not readily ignite under normal conditions. However, the curing process of epoxies, which involves the use of hardeners, can be a different story. The hardeners, or curing agents, are often more reactive and can have lower flash points, making them more susceptible to combustion when in liquid form and exposed to an ignition source.

The statement that WEST SYSTEM epoxy resin and hardeners are classified as non-flammable due to their flash points being greater than 200°F is an important distinction. The flash point is the lowest temperature at which a substance can vaporize to form an ignitable mixture in air. A high flash point indicates that the material is less likely to ignite and therefore poses a lower fire risk. When the flash point is above 200°F, it means that the material will not readily ignite at normal room temperatures, reducing the risk of fire during use and storage.

However, it is crucial to note that the classification of a material as non-flammable does not mean it is completely safe from fire hazards. Even materials with high flash points can still pose a fire risk under certain conditions, such as when heated to a high temperature or in the presence of an open flame. Furnaces, wood stoves, and other heat sources, while not posing a serious fire hazard in the presence of epoxy vapors, should still be handled with care when working with epoxies.

In terms of safety precautions, it is essential to follow proper handling and storage guidelines when working with epoxies. This includes working in well-ventilated areas to minimize the concentration of vapors, using appropriate personal protective equipment, and keeping ignition sources away from the work area.

In summary, while epoxy resins themselves are not flammable, the curing process and the use of hardeners can introduce fire hazards. It is important to understand the properties of the specific epoxy system being used and to take the necessary safety measures to mitigate any risks associated with its use.

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WEST SYSTEM epoxy resin and hardeners are classified non-flammable because their flash points are greater than 200--F and they evaporate slowly. Furnaces, wood stoves, and other heat sources do not pose a serious fire hazard in the presence of epoxy vapors.read more >>