Mix ratio

An adhesive or resin supplied as two separate components, typically a resin and a hardener, that begin to cure only once mixed. Two-part systems cure through the full depth of the joint without needing air or moisture, but demand accurate proportioning, thorough mixing and use within the pot life.

The component of a two-part resin or adhesive system that reacts chemically with the base resin to build the cured polymer network. Unlike a catalyst it is consumed in the reaction and must be dosed at the manufacturer's stated mix ratio; amines and anhydrides are common hardeners for epoxies.

The chemical process by which a liquid resin or adhesive hardens into its final solid state through crosslinking, driven by a hardener, catalyst, heat, moisture or radiation depending on the chemistry. Full properties develop only when cure is complete, which can take considerably longer than the initial set.

The length of time a mixed, reactive resin or adhesive remains usable in the mixing vessel before it thickens beyond application. Pot life shortens as temperature and mixed quantity increase, because the curing reaction generates its own heat.