Epoxy Ratio Calculator
Calculate precise resin-to-hardener volumes for any epoxy system. Select your ratio type (1:1, 2:1, 3:1, or 5:1), toggle between weight and volume measurement, and get exact amounts for a perfect chemical cure.
What Are Epoxy Mix Ratios?
An epoxy mix ratio defines the proportion of resin to hardener needed for a complete chemical reaction. Unlike paint that simply dries by solvent evaporation, epoxy undergoes a chemical cure — resin molecules cross-link with hardener molecules in a specific stoichiometric ratio. Getting this ratio wrong means some molecules remain unreacted, leaving the cured epoxy soft, tacky, or brittle.
Common epoxy ratios include 1:1 (craft and table-top epoxies), 2:1 (general-purpose laminating systems), 3:1 (structural adhesives), and 5:1 (high-performance marine and aerospace epoxies). The ratio can be specified by volume or by weight — these are not interchangeable because resin and hardener have different densities. This Epoxy Ratio Calculator handles both measurement methods.
Formulas & Equations Used
This Epoxy Ratio Calculator uses the following core equations:
1Hardener from Resin Volume▼
For a 2:1 ratio with 200 ml resin: Hardener = 200 ÷ 2 × 1 = 100 ml.
2Total Mixed Volume▼
200 ml resin + 100 ml hardener = 300 ml total epoxy. Account for ~5% volume loss during mixing and application.
3Volume to Weight Conversion▼
200 ml resin at 1.12 g/ml = 224g. Volume ratios differ from weight ratios due to density differences.
4Coverage Area Estimate▼
300 ml of mixed epoxy at 1mm thick covers approximately 3,000 cm² (about 3.2 sq ft).
How to Use This Epoxy Ratio Calculator
Follow these 3 simple steps:
Select Ratio Type
Choose your epoxy system ratio (1:1, 2:1, 3:1, or 5:1) and whether you're measuring by weight or volume.
Enter Resin Amount
Type in how much resin you plan to use. The calculator computes the exact hardener amount to maintain the stoichiometric ratio.
Get Exact Measurements
View the hardener amount, total mixed volume, coverage area estimate, and a visual proportion bar showing the resin:hardener split.
Example Problems & Step-by-Step Solutions
Here are 3 worked examples using this Epoxy Ratio Calculator:
Example 1Mix 500 ml of 2:1 epoxy for a river table
Example 2Calculate by weight: 300g resin at 100:45 (weight ratio)
Example 3Need 1 liter total of 1:1 epoxy
Interactive Epoxy Mixer
Select your epoxy ratio preset, adjust the resin volume, and see exact hardener amounts with a live proportion bar. Toggle between weight and volume measurement for accurate results.
Common Epoxy Ratios by Application
Different epoxy applications require different ratio systems. Always check the manufacturer's technical data sheet for the exact ratio and whether it's specified by weight or volume.
| Application | Typical Ratio | Measurement | Pot Life |
|---|---|---|---|
| Craft / Table-Top Coating | 1:1 | By Volume | 30-45 min |
| River Table / Deep Pour | 2:1 | By Volume | 45-60 min |
| Laminating / Fiberglass | 5:1 | By Weight | 20-40 min |
| Structural Adhesive | 3:1 | By Weight | 15-30 min |
| Marine Coating | 2:1 | By Weight | 30-50 min |
| Floor Coating | 2:1 | By Volume | 25-40 min |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common epoxy mix ratio?▼
The most common ratio is 1:1 by volume (equal parts resin and hardener). Many craft, jewelry, and table-top epoxies use this simple ratio. Industrial laminating and marine systems often use 2:1 or 5:1 ratios by weight for different working properties.
What happens if I use too much hardener?▼
Excess hardener causes the epoxy to cure too fast, generate excessive heat (exothermic reaction), become brittle, and may turn yellow. The surface may remain tacky because unreacted hardener stays on top. Always measure carefully — even a 10% deviation can cause problems.
Is epoxy ratio measured by weight or volume?▼
It depends on the product. Some specify by volume (easier to measure with graduated cups), others by weight (more precise using a scale). Always check the technical data sheet — a 2:1 by volume ratio is different from 2:1 by weight because resin and hardener have different densities.
How accurate does my epoxy mix need to be?▼
Most epoxies tolerate ±5% deviation from the specified ratio. Beyond that, curing problems occur. Use calibrated measuring cups for volume, or better yet, a digital scale for weight. Stir thoroughly for at least 3-5 minutes, scraping sides and bottom.
Why is my epoxy still sticky after 24 hours?▼
Tacky epoxy usually means the ratio was wrong, components weren't mixed thoroughly, or the temperature was too cold (below 60°F/15°C). Try warming the surface with a heat gun. If it remains tacky after 72 hours, scrape it off, clean the surface, and remix with the correct ratio.