I have a project I would like to attempt but not 100% on how to achieve it, any input would be appreciated.

I am looking to use a white epoxy or polyester to encapsulate some wooden branches to create an indoor table top. I will cut a flat surface onto the branches before laying them into an open mould. The branches will be visible on the table top but as the epoxy/polyester will be pigmented white you won't see any branches that aren't on the top surface. I hope that makes sense.

The upper surface needs to be durable, i.e. not easily scratched and fairly resistant to heat. It also has to be UV resistant - no discolouration.

Initially I was thinking of using Waterclear Polyester Casting Resin with a white pigment and treating the wood with Polyester Infusion Resin before pouring to reduce are bubbles.

My concern with this approach is the durability of the Waterclear Polyester as a table top.

Would it be possible to pour a very thin (1-2mm) layer of epoxy (with white pigment) in order to get the durable surface then make the bulk of the'body' in polyester (up to 50mm thick).

Is this possible?

Would the epoxy yellow over time?

Is there anyway I can use filler in the polyester pour to reduce costs?

Is there anything else I should consider?

TIA

Matt

Your biggest concern should be controlling the heat build up from the reaction, especially PE resin - less than 1" of resin in a bucket can catch fire, let alone 2"

I guess keeping volumes low and doing several pours would be advisable.

The reading I've done suggests heat build up but no one has said anything about fire risk. The datasheet for the polyester I've gone for says it's good for up to 75mm which was one of the reasons I selected it.




https://www.easycomposites.co.uk/casting-resins/water-clear-polyester-casting-resin.html