Just tried my first flat sheet 195g 2x2 c/f, and failed. I am using a polished aluminium table 2.4  x 1.7 Metres, No 8 wax, No 2 resin. I want a single thickness for decoration only. I waxed the Ali sheet and then tried to coat with epoxy, it kept producing pinholes which quickly opened up to bare circles the size of a penny. I brushed it over several times and gradually reduced the number of void circles but clouded the resin here and there, I assume with wax. I did press on and finish the sheet with Vac but had a persistent very slow leak, I just re pumped every 20 mins for 3 hours. The finished sheet (1/2mm thick) also shows tiny voids where the weave crosses. Perhaps I made some schoolboy errors here but a few hints would be much valued. I am wondering if everything was too cold at 12 deg?

Mat. Thanks again. The cost issue is really about the 5L EL2 I have opened and used just 200g out of, which will now go to waste. However the thought of perfect lightweight panels is tantalising. your tech advice service is second to none. Thanks again.

You're welcome!

Try infusing using the EL2 Laminating Resin. It will infuse slower than the IN2 infusion resin but it will still infuse (they're from the same family of resins). You will need to use a SLOW hardener (so if you purchase the FAST hardener then you'll want to pick up some of the AT30 SLOW to use with the resin instead) which will give the resin plenty of time to pull through before it gels.

--Matt

Matt Statham
Easy Composites / Carbon Mods - Technical Sales

Hi Matt
I was talking to a epoxy manufacturer in LA about viscosity. He said that it would be Ok to add up to 8% acetone to the infusion resin to reduce the viscosity and reduce surface tention that can cause pin holes. I haven't tried it yet but will. I was wondering if you have ever heard of doing this or had experience with this technic?
Fred