The claim that resin is harmful to the environment is frequently made by scholars. So, is resin non-ecofriendly?
Scholars contend that because it is a petroleum product, the method of making it was too destructive. However, some experts object to these claims.
In an effort to respond to that question, this article will examine both arguments.
What Is Resin?
Chemical substances called resins must be hardened to produce items that resemble plastic. While some resins are synthetic, others are non-ecological and natural.
It simply needs to be handled carefully at all times. Resins are frequently found in glue and varnishes and can be used to make:
- Coasters
- Clips
- Dog tags
- Trays and boxes
Is Resin Bad for The Environment?
Resin is neither poisonous nor bad for the environment. But the method used to create it is an entirely different matter.
Environmental hazards abound when volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and chemicals like styrene, isobutylene, and formaldehyde are used in the manufacture of resin.
Resin Chemical Pollute the Soil and Water
Most casting resins used in resin art are man-made, chemical-based resins. Chemicals can pollute soil and water by leaking into the environment.
Fossil fuels, on the other hand, have contributed to the escalating climate problem and its impacts on the entire world.
Based on the sort of resin used to make this resin and how it is employed in resin art, the issue is further broken down and comprehended.
Resin Processing and Chemical Emissions
The resin is created through the cracking process, which involves heating hydrocarbons into various molecular forms. Plastic polymer compounds can be joined to form certain sticky resins.
Chemicals are mostly used in the production of resin artworks.
Is Resin Good for Our Environmental Health?
You need oil on hand to make resin. It’s a petroleum product, therefore in this sense alone, it poses some environmental risks.
Resin Oil is Not an Environmental Hazard
However, one could counter that since oil is being used effectively, it is not harmful to the environment. Resin is also exceedingly strong and practically indestructible.
The durability of Resin Products & Environmental Implications
As a result, things manufactured of resin will survive longer than those made of other materials, which is good for the environment.
Resin is Readily Recyclable
Resin is a resource-efficient choice because it is readily recycled. Even though the resin is created from oil, it may be argued that utilizing it in place of other materials is better for the environment.
Does Resin Contain Toxic Substances?
Epoxy resin is less dangerous when it is liquid than when it is solid. Most resins are made up of compounds that have been connected to cancer in both humans and animals.
They have the potential to seriously harm both soil and water.
Once a resin has solidified, its toxicity to humans reduces. It’s recommended to work with resin of any kind in a well-ventilated location while wearing gloves.
Although silicone resin hasn’t been utilized in liquid form, it’s thought to be non-toxic and food-safe. Silicone plastic uses chemicals, but it is incredibly strong and has high heat tolerance.
So, these compounds are unlikely to be released unless the product is digested.
How Long Does the Resin Take to Decay?
Synthetic resins are composed of fossil fuels; they will always decay through biodegradation.
All-recyclable and biodegradable alternative resins are available. How long it would take to completely decay, however, was not the subject of many rumors.
Additionally, they are made to be incredibly robust and use less energy before needing to be recycled without harming any natural resources.
Even though plastic resins can be easily recycled and converted back into new plastic, all accessible resources recommend using recovered materials rather than disposing of them.
Therefore, it is uncertain how long the recyclable resin will take to break down.
How Can I Properly Dispose of Resin?
When the liquid resin has dried and is sufficiently moist, the residual solution can be disposed of in regular trash.
The environment is contaminated by the emission of toxic compounds from resin that is left on a glass surface. Additionally, because it contaminates water, it cannot be disposed of in this way.
As is the case with scrap resin, add the liquid of the resin to a box that is already filled with HDPE plastic to eliminate it.
Additionally, this is recycled into brand-new resin or home furnishings like shampoo containers.
They can be combined in a plastic bag with discarded HDPE plastic for recycling businesses to use to produce new items.
Are There Various Types of Resin?
The term “resin” actually refers to a family of materials rather than just one particular substance. However, the majority of these are made of plastic.
Plastic products are produced using a variety of resin types. For arts and crafts projects or to coat and protect surfaces.
Various resin varieties are frequently utilized to create everyday items like furniture and appliances. There are several uses for resin; however, it would be impossible to describe them all at once.
Fiberglass/Polyester Resin
A prominent type of resin used for maintenance and gap filling is fiberglass. Making boats with it is one of its most popular applications in the marine sector.
It is also commonly used in restaurants, lavatories, and other areas that need frequent cleanings, such as kitchens and baths.
Fiberglass and resin are frequently used together to provide a tough, waterproof covering.
Fiberglass is predominantly used in backsplashes, shower stalls, and molding around bathtubs and shower units.
Epoxy Resin
Epoxy resin is the most common type in the industry. To make a rigid shell, epoxy is mixed in liquid form into two components.
In the marine industry, epoxy is frequently used to create deep-sea tools and equipment that need to be extremely strong. Epoxy stands out from other resins in appearance due to its chemical makeup.
Plastic Resin
This is an additional resin type that can be found in several industries. Because it is more resilient than fiberglass, it only appears in heavy-duty tools and equipment that must withstand intense pressure.
Similar to epoxy resins, polyurethane resins are two-part liquid mixtures used to make durable coatings.
Silicon Resin
Resin known as silicone is widely used in kitchens. This kind of resin has frequently been utilized in electrical applications since it is highly heat resistant and an insulator.
Silicone is said to be water-repellent and safe for ingestion. This fluid material is used to make molds and tooling.
References:
- https://counterculturediy.com/uncategorized/is-artist-resin-environmentally-responsible/
- https://www.ourendangeredworld.com/eco/is-resin-bad-for-the-environment/
