Epoxy Phenol Novolac Resins (EPN)

Properties and Applications

Epoxy phenol novolac resins (EPN) are liquid or semi-solid reaction products of epichlorohydrin and phenol-formaldehyde novolacs. These resins combine the high thermal stability of novolacs with the high reactivity of epoxy resins. They are known for their outstanding dimensional stability, high resistance to creep at elevated temperature, favorable price-to-performance characteristics and high chemical resistance including many acids, bases and solvents. On the down side, epoxy novolac resins can be brittle, are not color stable and can be difficult to process due to their relative high viscosity. For this reason, some grades are solvent-cut or emulsified (waterborne).

Epoxy phenol novolac resins are used in a variety of products including high temperature structural adhesives, electrical laminates, high performance composites, and molded parts. They are sometimes blended with other resins and/or with fast curing hardeners to avoid post cure and to modify their properties. Due to their low flammability, outstanding dimensional stability and slow heat release, they are often part of structural solutions for the aerospace and transportation industry. Other important applications include corrosion resistant marine and industrial coatings, tank linings, pipe coatings, automotive primers and coil & appliance coatings.

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