Epoxy is very durable. However, it would most likely not be very prudent to use it the manner you have proposed.

I would defer to the manufacturer of the counter top and follow their recommendations regarding a protective coating.

A lacquer finish will be infinitely easier to maintain than an epoxy finish.

On copper, I fear epoxy could be worse than lacquer, because at least you can remove the lacquer if it goes wrong; you can't remove epoxy.

Casey

Epoxy covers such a huge variety of products and coatings that it's kind of meaningless. What are you thinking of doing? With what EXACT products? Honestly, I quite frankly think if you're going with copper, you LIVE with the good and the bad.

I'm not sure why you're applying a lacquer; that seems a strange finish for a counter top, and not one I'd want in contact with my food or utensils. What are you trying to achieve? It kind of sounds like a certain look is what you're going for.

Thanks everyone! I prefer a more organic appearing finish than plastic-look epoxy - and have ruled it out since posting for that reason alone. The patina we are applying is a heat treated one. The patina must be sealed with something or will continue to shift/change. We will use ColorLoc for initial sealer, then either Behlen Jet Spray or something appropriate to avoid heavy wear or scuffing of surface. I know waxing is recommended over top for a more food friendly surface for the kitchen. (There's a massive long thread on DIY copper counters on the Garden Web but no one has really delved into the long term top coat options).

Heres an example of the patina on YouTube:

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=ou_JMutfc8U

heres one topcoat option specially for metal counters:

https://www.everbritecoatings.com/cart/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=7&products_id=42

here is Sculpt Nouveaus ColorLoc

http://www.sculptnouveau.com/Details.cfm?ProdID=110&category=7

I hope this gives a better idea of what the plan is...

please weigh in with any feedback/concerns!

You want something strippable like lacquer or shellac, not epoxy. I'd use paste wax if that.