Yes, West System epoxy can absolutely be colored. While West System offers a specific range of their own pigments, you are not limited to just those options.
Despite the fact that the standard range of WEST SYSTEM pigments might suggest you can only tint your epoxy in four colors—black, white, grey, or blue—it is indeed possible to make epoxy any color you like. This flexibility allows for a vast array of aesthetic possibilities in your epoxy projects.
How to Achieve Any Color with West System Epoxy
To achieve your desired hue, you can incorporate various types of colorants into the mixed epoxy resin. It's crucial to use colorants specifically designed for or compatible with epoxy to ensure proper curing and long-term durability.
Common methods for coloring West System epoxy include:
- West System Pigments: These are pre-formulated pigments designed for optimal compatibility and color stability within the West System epoxy range. They offer consistent results for the core colors (black, white, grey, blue).
- Universal Tinting Pigments: Many commercially available universal tinting pigments, often found at paint stores, can be used. Always check for compatibility or test a small batch first.
- Epoxy-Specific Pigments and Dyes: Numerous manufacturers produce liquid or powdered pigments specifically for epoxy resin. These are a safe bet for achieving vibrant and stable colors.
- Mica Powders: For metallic, pearlescent, or shimmering effects, mica powders are an excellent choice. They come in a wide spectrum of colors and create depth and luster.
- Artist Pigments (Powdered): Pure powdered artist pigments can be used, but ensure they are inert and won't react adversely with the epoxy.
- Alcohol Inks (in moderation): While popular for resin art, alcohol inks should be used sparingly as they can interfere with the cure if too much is added.
Important Considerations When Coloring Epoxy
To ensure successful coloring without compromising the epoxy's integrity, keep the following in mind:
- Compatibility is Key: Always use colorants that are compatible with epoxy resin. Incompatible additives can inhibit curing, weaken the epoxy, or cause undesirable reactions.
- Minimal Addition: Use the smallest amount of colorant necessary to achieve your desired shade. Adding too much pigment can weaken the epoxy's structural properties, especially its strength and adhesion. A good rule of thumb is to not exceed 5% by weight of the mixed resin.
- Thorough Mixing: Incorporate the colorant into the epoxy resin (Part A) thoroughly before adding the hardener (Part B). Once the colorant is fully dispersed in the resin, then add the hardener and mix both components thoroughly according to West System's instructions.
- Lightfastness and UV Stability: If the colored epoxy will be exposed to sunlight, choose pigments known for their lightfastness and UV resistance to prevent fading or discoloration over time.
- Effect on Transparency: Powdered pigments and opaque dyes will result in an opaque or translucent finish, while liquid dyes and very fine pigments used sparingly can maintain some level of transparency.
By carefully selecting and incorporating compatible colorants, you can unlock a full spectrum of colors for your West System epoxy projects, from subtle tints to vibrant, opaque hues.
