Polyureas are polyurea products that consist of silica sand or other impurities, and an ultraviolet curing binder. In order for the polyurea to achieve its full structural strength, it must bond with some sort of an external resin, such as a polyurea spray or polyurea liner. In terms of strength, the polyurea coating only has about twenty five percent of what a standard polyurea coating has. Thus, polyurea coating systems are less strong than standard polyurea systems, but still more than most paint formulated polyurea systems.
Definition. The word ‘Polyurea‘ is often used incorrectly throughout the industry. While polyurea coating itself is not composed of any sort of resin, the term refers instead to the various additives that are added during surface preparation. Urethane coating chemistry is split into three subsectors: polyurea/opolyurethane, polyurea/waterborne, and polyurea/odor.
As the name implies, polyurea coating systems contain additives that impart rigidness, hardness, and non-fading qualities to polyurea. These additives may include surfactants (e.g., Zylan, silicone oil), UV curing agents (e.g., Thioctic Acid, N-acetyl-pyridinium benzoate), or other compounds. Surfactants are added to make formulations easy to use for application. The ingredients improve the surface tension of the substance and thus increase its ability to adhere to itself and other substances. UV curing agents increase the curing and drying times of polyurea coating systems. The combination of UV curing agents and surfactants results in faster drying times and hence faster coat times.
Water-based polyurea products have many advantages over their water-soluble equivalents. These coatings can withstand humidity as high as 0.6%, which is about double the moisture resistance capabilities of typical polyurea formulations. These coatings also provide full ultraviolet protection. Other advantages include chemical and abrasion resistance, which make them useful for applications where solvents are used. They also provide protection against ultraviolet light. For application purposes, they are also easier to apply, with smoother application and overall appearance.
Polyurea coating systems are generally made with aluminum oxide, calcium carbonate, or zinc oxide. However, zinc oxide and calcium carbonate may increase the cost and decrease the durability of the finished coating. Thus, it is important to select the right combination of polyurea and coating. The physical properties and formulation of the system should be designed to optimize the coating’s physical properties and ensure its durability over time.
There are many concrete finishes available, depending on its application and the type of application. Abrasion resistance, chemical resistance, and abrasion resistance are all physical properties that determine the durability of the finished coating. They are also the most important factors in the selection of a coating. If these properties are not present, the coating will not be able to provide the intended protection.
