Polyurea coats have unique benefits that make them stand out from other types of protective coatings. You will need to follow certain guidelines and restrictions in order to properly apply them. We have listed a few things you should know before considering these coatings.
1. Meaning of Polyurea
Polyurea, an elastomer substance that is derived from step growth polymerization, is Polyurea. This involves the combination of synthetic resin reactive and isocyanate. Polyurea is formed when resin blend and isocyanate are combined in the step-growth polymerization process.
Various isocyanates or resins may provide flame retarding, moisture resistance, desired setting times, and other unique properties.
A hybrid coating is a mixture of polyurea and polyurethane in predetermined amounts. The hybrid coating offers specific physical properties at low cost.
2. Difference between Aromatic Polyurea and Aliphatic Polyurea
Polyureas made from aromatic diisocyanates can be distinguished by their ultraviolet (UV) light sensitivity.
Sunlight or artificial UV light can cause the color change and physical properties of the polyurea to deteriorate. Although it is not recommended for top coats, aromatic polyurea can be used as a cost-effective alternative. It can also be used to coat the base coat.
Polyureas can resist color changes due to sunlight exposure. They must also maintain their physical properties in UV exposure conditions. These are ideal for outdoor applications because they have a glossy appearance that can improve aesthetics and can lower film thickness by about 30 mils. It is more expensive than aromatic polyureas due to its complicated process.
3. Polyurea and its unique features
No coating can replace polyurea. Polyurea’s unique physical properties and durability are the reason. Polyurea has very strict requirements for surface preparation.
Polyurea protects surfaces and steel structures from corrosion. It is able to help preserve a damaged concrete structure, and it can also be used to restore and maintain intact canals. It is resistant to chemicals, salts, oils and scratches found in commercial and industrial floor applications. It protects boats and other vessels from cracking and deterioration.
4. Comparison between polyurea to epoxy and polyurethane
Polyurea has a superior durability, chemical, abrasion and moisture resistance to epoxy coatings. It also cures faster.
Polyurea is a chemical and moisture resistant material that has superior durability.
5. Polyurea coatings
are a significant application
There are many applications that can benefit greatly from polyurea coatings, such as
Material handling and automotive industry
The auto industry has been using polyurea coat since more than 30 years. This coating is well-known for its mechanical properties and impact resistance.
Polyurea is used to provide abrasion protection for construction and mining equipment. It can also be used for lining dumpers that are useful for abrasive materials such as metallic and coal ores. It protects conveyors and rollers that transport metal ores, stones and abrasive coal.
Irrigation, pumps, and pipeline systems
Polyurea provides protection against corrosion and abrasion in pipelines that are exposed to corrosive or abrasive substances. It is used as a base coating to prevent cathodic debonding.
Security and defense sectors
Polyurea coatings have proven to be durable and easy to set. It is capable of absorbing explosive energy. Polyurea coatings and linings can be used in security and defense.
Healthcare
Ideally, hospital environments should have wall and floor coverings that are resistant to viruses and bacteria. There is always a risk that patients will contract secondary infections. Cracks, crevices and scratches on the floor can lead to moisture seepage that can spread dangerous diseases.
Surfaces of concrete and steel bridges
Polyurea can be used as an initial coating or maintenance/repair coat due to its quick-curing abilities, impact resistance, elongation and tensile strengths. Polyurea’s unique structure makes it an elastomer with higher durability. This is why polyurea’s suitability in construction, and other areas, is so remarkable.
6. Critical issues and limitations for Polyurea coatings
Polyurea coats have special limitations and considerations. This is because the coating is highly reactive and quick-curing. Poor adhesion to substrates may result from the lack of adequate wetting time. Before coating can be applied, formulators must ensure that the surface is completely wet.
Conclusion
These are the top things you must know about polyurea floor coatings before you get it done at your home, business, or garage setting. Polyurea floor coatings are a good option. With a durable and safe floor system, you can rest assured that your home is secure.
If your goal is to find the best concrete company and learn more about Polyurea floor coats, get in touch for more information!