What is resin made of?

Resin is a popular material used in various industries, including construction, automotive, and furniture. It is a versatile material that can be moulded into different shapes, sizes, and colours. However, have you ever wondered what resin is made of? In this blog, we will discuss the composition of resin and how it is produced.

What is Resin?
Resin is a viscous liquid that is obtained from various plants, such as pine trees, and synthesised chemically. The term "resin" is derived from the Latin word "resina," which means "to flow." Resin is a popular material used in the production of adhesives, coatings, plastics, and other industrial products.

What is Resin Made Of?
Resin is made up of two primary components: a resinous material and a hardener. The resinous material is typically a liquid or a semi-solid substance that is polymerized to form a solid plastic. The hardener is a chemical compound that reacts with the resin to cause polymerization, resulting in a solid plastic.

The resinous material used in resin production can be derived from various sources. Natural resins are obtained from trees, such as pine, cedar, and spruce. Synthetic resins are produced from petroleum, coal, or natural gas. The type of resin used in a particular application depends on its specific properties, such as its strength, durability, and resistance to heat and chemicals.

The hardener used in resin production is typically an organic peroxide, such as methyl ethyl ketone peroxide (MEKP). The hardener is mixed with the resinous material in a specific ratio, and the mixture is then heated to initiate the polymerization process.

How is Resin Produced?
Resin production involves several steps, including extraction, purification, and polymerization. The process varies depending on the type of resin being produced.

Natural resins are typically obtained by tapping trees and collecting the resin that flows out. The collected resin is then purified by removing impurities such as bark, insects, and dirt. The purified resin is then heated to remove any remaining water content and to increase its viscosity.

Synthetic resins are produced by chemical reactions between various compounds. The process involves mixing the raw materials, such as petroleum or coal, with various chemicals and heating the mixture to initiate the polymerization process.


In conclusion, resin is a versatile material used in various industries due to its unique properties. The composition of resin includes a resinous material and a hardener, which are mixed in a specific ratio and heated to initiate the polymerization process. The type of resin used in a particular application depends on its specific properties, and the production process varies depending on the type of resin being produced. Understanding the composition and production process of resin can help you choose the right type of resin for your specific needs. It can also help you appreciate the versatility and importance of this popular material.