Why Does My Epoxy Turn Yellow (And How Can I Prevent It)?
Why Does My Epoxy Turn Yellow (And How Can I Prevent It)?
At RW Atelier, we know how frustrating it feels: you spend hours perfecting a beautiful piece, only to find it turning yellow days—or even hours—later. Sadly, epoxy yellowing is a common problem. But the good news? It’s absolutely preventable.
This guide explains why epoxy resin yellows, how to avoid it, and which formulas—like our 5050AB—can help you achieve that long-lasting, crystal-clear finish your work deserves.
☀️ Why Epoxy Turns Yellow
| Cause | What Happens |
|---|---|
| UV Exposure | UV light breaks down resin bonds over time, causing discoloration. |
| Heat & Humidity | High temperatures speed up chemical degradation, especially in Part B. |
| Low-Quality Resin | Budget or unstable resins often lack UV stabilizers and anti-yellowing agents. |
| Oxidation | Oxygen introduced during curing or from open bottles triggers yellowing. |
| Dirty Tools | Metal or unclean tools introduce contaminants that lead to early resin failure. |
| Shelf Aging | Improperly stored resin degrades over time—even before it’s opened. |
✅ How to Prevent Yellowing
- Choose a UV-Stabilized Formula
Use a high-performance resin like RW Atelier’s 5050AB, designed to resist yellowing from UV and heat. - Store in a Cool, Dark Place
Avoid sunlight and high temperatures. Ideal range: 15–25°C (59–77°F). - Seal Bottles After Every Use
Oxygen accelerates degradation. Wipe rims and seal tightly; add silica gel for extra protection. - Use Clean, Non-Metal Tools
Plastic or silicone tools are best—avoid metal stirrers that may trigger oxidation. - Apply a UV-Protective Topcoat (Optional)
For sun-exposed items like keychains, a topcoat provides extra UV defense.
🔬 Yellowed vs. Clear Epoxy (What to Look For)
| Property | Clear Epoxy | Yellowed Epoxy |
|---|---|---|
| Color | Water-clear | Amber or yellow |
| Odor | Mild chemical | Sharp or sour |
| Viscosity | Flows smoothly | Thick or clumpy |
| Finish | Glossy and hard | Dull, cloudy, or soft |
| Adhesion | Good bond with wood, metal, silicone | May peel or separate |
🌟 Why We Recommend RW Atelier 5050AB
Our 5050AB Crystal Clear Epoxy is trusted by artists and crafters who want long-term clarity. Whether you’re making jewelry, preserving florals, or creating artwork—it stays beautifully transparent even with sun exposure.
- UV-Resistant Formula
- Low Odor & VOCs
- Easy 1:1 Mixing Ratio
- Compatible with pigments, foils, dried flowers, and more
💡 Pro Tip: For a domed, glass-like finish that resists yellowing, top off 5050AB with 1608AB.
📸 Suggested Visuals
- Comparison: freshly cured vs. yellowed epoxy
- Storage visual: resin in direct sunlight vs. stored properly
- 5050AB with embedded dried flower in crystal-clear finish
Final Thoughts
Yellowing is natural chemistry at work—but it’s not inevitable. With the right resin, proper tools, and smart habits, you can keep your epoxy creations brilliantly clear for the long haul.
Looking for a worry-free, professional-grade formula? RW Atelier 5050AB might just become your go-to resin for everything from keychains to keepsakes.
