Observations on Superficial Turtle Scute Condition after Prolonged Covering by PC-7 Epoxy
Assoc Reptilian Amphibian Vet 7[3]:7-8 Winter'97 In My Experience (unrefereed material) 2 Refs

- Belzer and Reese (1995) reported the commendable properties of PC-7 epoxy for attaching radiotransmitters to turtle carapaces: it poses no exothermic burn hazard to shell sectors coated with it; its 8-12 h curing period provides ample working time to position transmitters properly; its high viscosity holds the transmitter in place during curing; and it contains no phenolic hazards to turtles; it endures environmental rigors for many years. A concern, when using epoxy, however is the potential long term effect that a coat of PC-7 might have on underlying tissues. Controlled studies of epoxy's long term effects on turtle shells are lacking. Speculations on long term effects include no detrimental effect (and perhaps even beneficial protection) from prolonged covering, or epoxy may promote fungal growth in the keratin, as seen in some humans during cosmetic fingernail use. Studies over loner time spans, including histopathological analysis of the scutes, are needed to definitively comment on epoxy's safety.