Can Epoxy AB Adhesive Be Used Outdoors?

If you are considering using epoxy AB adhesive outdoors, there are several key points you should understand. In this article, we address the following questions: What temperature range can epoxy AB adhesive withstand? Is it suitable for outdoor use? And what happens when epoxy AB adhesive is exposed to sunlight?

What Temperature Range Can Epoxy AB Adhesive Withstand?
Epoxy AB adhesive typically remains stable within a temperature range of -50°F to 170°F. Exceeding these limits can cause freezing (at low temperatures) or softening (at high temperatures). Any claims of epoxy adhesives enduring temperatures beyond this range are generally misleading, as current epoxy technology has not achieved significant breakthroughs in extreme temperature resistance. We do offer a variant that can tolerate up to 212°F—meaning it won’t deform or soften when briefly exposed to boiling water—but prolonged exposure to 212°F conditions will still lead to softening.

Is Epoxy AB Adhesive Suitable for Outdoor Use?
Epoxy AB adhesive is not recommended for outdoor applications. This is due to its core components—the curing agent and epoxy resin—which are susceptible to degradation when exposed to sunlight and rain. Outdoor conditions can cause surface discoloration and other forms of deterioration. While it is technically possible to use it outdoors, performance and longevity are significantly better indoors, making indoor use the advised choice.

What Happens to Epoxy AB Adhesive in Sunlight?
Prolonged exposure (approximately 2–4 years) to direct sunlight can cause epoxy AB adhesive to soften or melt. Its softening point is around 275°F, similar to many plastics and polyurethanes (polyester-based materials tend to degrade faster). The initial visible change is yellowing, which occurs because ultraviolet (UV) rays in sunlight break down the plasticizers in the epoxy, leading to discoloration over time.