Polyurea Coatings
What is Polyurea
A polyurea coating / elastomer is the result of a one-step reaction between an isocyanate and a resin blend component. The result is a finer crystal structure which yields better physical properties ie higher mechanical strength, superior adhesion strength and a much faster curing time.
Polyurea coatings
Polyurea spray coatings technology is a recent development in the polyurethane coatings industry. Although the technology was introduced almost 20 years ago, improved spray equipment and the development of new raw materials has made it possible to overcome initial problems with this technology.
Polyurea coatings and linings are commonly applied to concrete and steel for as protective wear linings against corrosion and abrasion. Polyurea is a new generation product that has extensive benefits over existing and currently used epoxy adhesives and rubber linings. The application of polyurea is faster and more efficient, with cost saving and additional mechanical strength and longevity benefits. Polyurea has extended applications broadening the scope for use. This broad window of application conditions, with a high tolerance for substrate and environmental humidity and temperature, makes polyurea a suitable coating for concrete in construction applications like:
- Car parkades/ decks
- Containment liners
- Membranes
- Bridges
- Roof repair
The high abrasion resistance makes it suitable for application liners in:
- Trucks
- Bulk transport vehicles
- Freight ships
- Conveyor belts
- Pipe linings
Polyurea versus Polyurethane
Polyurethane presents the best compromise between cost and quality but is limited by application performance. It is susceptible to blistering when the substrate contains more than 5% humidity. Humidity content and application temperature are limiting factors for polyurethanes.
The presence of catalysts in hybrids makes them more sensitive to humidity than “pure” polyurea.