Can I use MDF, plywood, or particle board as the base for an epoxy countertop?

Yes. UltraClear Bar & Table Top Epoxy can be applied over almost any base you would build a countertop from, including MDF, plywood, particle board, other wood, Formica, laminate and concrete. MDF and hardwood-veneer plywood both work; neither is preferred over the other. What matters most is that the base is flat, level and completely sturdy so the epoxy can be applied and self-level properly.

Wood products are porous, so brush on a seal coat of Bar & Table Top Epoxy first, then pour the flood coat. The cured flood coat is a 1/8" layer of glass-like resin that acts as a complete moisture barrier over the wood underneath, which makes it a good choice for protecting MDF from spills and moisture.

Use the epoxy on the top and sides only. If you want to protect the underside from moisture, seal it with something like an oil-based polyurethane instead.

For the edge, let the epoxy flow over the sides for a seamless, rounded-over finish.

The epoxy will not bond to melamine or plastic panels, so do not use those as a base you expect it to stick to.

Full list of compatible surfaces: https://ultraclear.helpscoutdocs.com/article/111-epoxy-surfaces Coverage calculator: https://www.bestbartopepoxy.com/pages/epoxy-calculator