Hi everyone,

I’m exploring epoxy resin for a project where flexible polymer tubing needs to be partially encapsulated for protection and structural reinforcement. The challenge is that the tubing material has some elasticity, while most epoxy systems cure into a rigid structure.

In previous trials, we observed micro-cracking or debonding after repeated flex cycles. I’m trying to understand:

Are there flexible-grade epoxy systems suitable for bonding to elastomeric or low-surface-energy polymers?

Does surface treatment (plasma, chemical primer, mechanical roughening) significantly improve adhesion?

Would polyurethane-based systems perform better than standard epoxy in dynamic applications?

How do cured epoxy systems behave under cyclic stress when bonded to flexible substrates?

This is for a functional application rather than decorative use, so mechanical durability and chemical stability are important factors.

Would appreciate insights from anyone who has tested epoxy with polymer tubes or flexible engineered materials.

Thanks!