Help! Epoxy bubbles

[Derek]

I am applying thin layers, and doing it as temps drop, but still getting air bubbles forming in epoxy.

Plus when sanding, half bubble left after sander goes across fills with epoxy dust and turns white. Is there a successful way of cleaning this up other than sanding down to wood again? This is for some bright work.

Where am I erroring here or is this normal and I am missing something?

Temps in garage are running about 55-60 and using fast hardner.

[Derek]

Thanks Ray.

Is there a preferrable solvent. I have heard some may hinder the eopxy binding to a previous layer.

Happens on the first layer, air entrapped in the wood. Considering sanding down to wood and starting again (this is hatch cover). I read that if you 'heat' the wood, then apply epoxy as the wood cools, it will actually suck the eopxy into the pores instead of allowing air bubles to escape.

Thoughts? Experience?

My first attempt at formidible clear coat.

[capt jake]

Me? I would sand it down and re-apply. Moderate temperatures. Make sure that the hatch isn't still warming up as you apply the epoxy.

If you had any small holes in say the joints; this can cause some bubbles to appear, as the epoxy cures and off-gases.

For bright work on Cedar, it will take at least 3 coats, probably more.

Good luck.

Solvent, I use laquer thinner. Oneoceankayaks recommends this and I have had no issues with using it.

[Mike Kelley]

If you are using epoxy, get a small propane torch, and while the mix is still fliid on the aplication,slowly run the torch over the sorface. this is not to heat, but to de-gass the epoxy, also DO NOT USE SOLVENTS!!! they will cause allergic reactions, and release free-radicals , not a good thing. vinigar is the stuff to use on claen up.

mike

[Mike Kelley]

If you are using epoxy, get a small propane torch, and while the mix is still fliid on the aplication,slowly run the torch over the sorface. this is not to heat, but to de-gass the epoxy, also DO NOT USE SOLVENTS!!! they will cause allergic reactions, and release free-radicals , not a good thing. vinigar is the stuff to use on claen up.

mike

[Derek]

Thanks Mike, I'll give that a shot.