Back Mesh vs. Penetration: Which Stone Reinforcement Method Is Right for Your Production?

Tired of prized stone cracking during work? The solution lies in two core methods- backing reinforcement on the slab's backside and surface penetration reinforcement. This article will detail these stone reinforcement methods and procedures, combining the characteristics of Molibon epoxy stone AB glue. 

1.  Back Mesh Reinforcement

Use epoxy resin glue to stick a high-strength fiber protective mesh (mesh size 5×5mm, weight about 900g/m², width 1.2-1.8m) to the back of the stone. After curing, the board strength is improved. Suitable for reinforcing large-format or thin slabs of marble, granite, travertine and onyx.

Strong back mesh glue has low viscosity. The ideal curing temperature is 25℃-75℃. It takes 6-9 hours to cure at room temperature. When the temperature is too low (such as in winter), the glue will thicken and cure slowly. This can be improved by heating the A glue, the stone or the construction environment.  

Curing method matches the production line:

(1) High-yield/high-reinforcement production line: Select mechanized back mesh operation, combined with natural curing at room temperature, or use a flat/vertical drying furnace for heating and curing;

(2) Low-yield/low-reinforcement production line: Select manual back mesh operation and use natural curing at room temperature.

2. Surface Penetration Reinforcement

For surface and deep microcracks in stone, epoxy resin stone adhesive is applied to penetrate the cracks. After curing, it is polished and ground to resolve the problem of insufficient strength after the back mesh is reinforced.

Molibon's high-strength penetrating epoxy stone glue has a setting temperature of 24°C/75.2°F, a minimum curing temperature of 5-10°C, and room-temperature curing in just 25-35 minutes.

Curing method matches the production line:

(1) Automatic production line: Use a flat/vertical drying oven for high-temperature curing to accelerate the curing of the glue;

(2) Simple/low-volume production line: Curing naturally at room temperature. When using fast setting epoxy adhesive, it is recommended to cure for 40 minutes before the next process.

For a seamless finish, the penetrating epoxy must match your stone's color. Molibon offer a free color matching service to ensure your repair is invisible, leaving no visible glue marks.