How to test Polyester Resin?

[SynPDX]

435 Standard Polyester Resin

Says shelf life is 3 months.... I've had mine for around 6-8 months.

The website (US Composites) says that this time may be extended if the container was never opened, and temperatures were good, etc.

So, my question:

I have this five gallon jug, never opened, it's been in my garage (Oregon), no extreme cold/heat.... What type of testing can I do to see if this resin is still usable? I've never laid fiberglass before, openly admit I have lots to learn...

I have the hardener, copped glass, silica, everything I need to make peanut butter... If I were to make a small sample, how long should it take to harden, etc? Better yet, if I were to mix up a small batch, what would I look for to tell if the resin has gone bad?

Thanks for the help ahead of time!

 

[Woodonglass]

Mix up 150 cc or resin and 1,5 cc of hardener wait 20-25 mins if it kicks off and hardens you're good to go. I'm bettin you are.'​

 

[SynPDX]

Sounds good, thanks for the tip!

 

[fhhuber]

Yep... mix some.

If the can was well sealed I've seen it be good beyond 5 years.

I got 5 gal of free resin from a shop because it was outdated and the shop had to get rid of it.

 

[Georgesalmon]

Also resin seperates so be sure and mix it up well before testing.