The History of epoxies

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01

A Breakthrough Discovery

In 1934, a significant breakthrough ignited the journey of epoxy resins. P. Schlack from the renowned German company IG Farben uncovered the crosslinking of epoxides with amines, giving birth to high-molecular polyamine derivatives for textile auxiliaries.

02

Pioneering the Path

Four years later, the visionary Swiss chemist, Pierre Castan, saw the immense potential of epoxy compounds in producing plastic products. The revelation was profound as the curing process displayed minimal shrinkage and released no volatiles, creating possibilities. Patents for these groundbreaking resins, especially in dentistry, marked the beginning of epoxy’s ascension.

03

A Legacy Carried Forward

The journey continued across borders, with Sylvan Greenlee in the United States following suit by developing and patenting epoxy resins. The pioneers’ legacies live on, as their companies remain key players in the epoxy industry, driving innovation and growth as proud members of Epoxy Europe.

04

Unveiling Endless Potential

Witness the evolution of epoxy resins as they shape industries, fuel innovations, and transform how we create and build. From groundbreaking discoveries to trailblazing applications, the history of epoxy resins is an inspiring tale of continuous progress, with the promise of an even more remarkable future.

Did you know?

Originally sought as a binding agent for coatings that resisted caustic bases, epoxy revealed remarkable properties beyond expectations. It quickly expanded its horizons, becoming a vital force in the aerospace, electronics, automotive, and maritime industries, as well as food, pharmaceuticals, and other manufacturing sectors.