If you’re looking for information about polyurethane coatings, say less! The material of the coating, Polyurethane itself, is highly durable, and it is known for its wide range of applications and uses. When it dries, it forms a film similar to paint on a layer.
You might ask: what are the uses, applications, properties, and benefits of polyurethane coatings? Well, for a start, it’s a versatile material that’s currently used in several industries and the reason for that is because of its versatility. It’s a reaction polymer, which is the mixture of the following: a polyol resin and an isocyanate hardener or curing agent.
You can read more about polyurethane coatings with this blog!
Benefits, Properties, and Types of Polyurethane Coatings
Benefits and Properties of Coatings [Polyurethane]
Durability
Polyurethane coatings can outlast harsh conditions that other polymer coatings cannot withstand. These properties usually can degrade other polymer coatings but not polyurethane coatings.
Flexibility
Coatings produced from Polyurethane are flexible, tough, and firm. The material can easily withstand expansion, contraction, and even great impact. All of this can occur to the material without cracking or peeling.
Adhesion
Coatings are created from polyurethane sticks and bond well to many other materials. When you stick them to other materials, they won’t easily peel off, which can be attributed to their adhesive properties. They also adjust to the surfaces that they are stuck on.
Aesthetic Appeal
The finish of Polyurethane coatings is attractive and glossy, and customizable. Compared to other coating options, it’s notably more long-lasting and retains its aesthetic appeal much longer.
Toughness
Its texture may look smooth. However, it is a pretty tough material. When you touch it, it’s pretty hard and rightfully so; this material’s sturdy and long-lasting!
Customization Options
Did you know? It’s possible to tweak and customize your coatings formulation! If you want to get a specific hardness, stability, and resistance, you can tweak the ingredients and formula.
Waterproof
When used for waterproofing, Polyurethane coatings are excellent choices because they produce an infallible layer that shields the area where it is applied. Thus, water cannot pass through it. The material works great, notably in integral waterproofing, especially with polyurethane waterproofing, as these practices and materials complement each other.
Resistance to Chemicals and Abrasion
Many chemicals are resisted by Polyurethane coatings. This property makes them prosperous in industrial settings and applications – and especially in niches where hygiene is paramount. One great example would be industrial floor coatings.
Easy Application
There are so many ways you can apply polyurethane coatings, from brush and roller to spray. Due to the versatility and ease of its application methods, this means less chances of attaining air bubbles and surface irregularities. These two mean potential problems.
Versatile Chemistry
The chemistry behind them is versatile, with many uses and applications. It also has a track record of reliability.
Prevention of Water Infiltration
If there is anything that Polyurethane can do, it is to successfully repair aid with a crack repair for concrete. By using it with crack repair in concrete, you can prevent water from infiltrating your space and projects. Other materials, though, might have stronger resistance capacities.
Types of Polyurethane Coatings
Moisture Cured Urethanes
These urethanes “repair”; they use moisture and humidity to do it. They are good at handling drier and higher temperatures than epoxies and urethanes with two components. The finish they have is more on the harder side.
These urethanes are also aromatic. They also change color after a period of time.
Properties of this are:
- Harder finishes
- Resistance to drier and higher temperatures
- Aromatic
- Color changes after a certain time period occurs
Its applications are:
- Commercial roofing
- Industrial roofing
Acrylic Polyurethanes
Acrylic coatings are resistant to UV and tough and durable, and they are renowned for their excellent gloss and color retention. Exterior steel surfaces use these types of coatings for long-term protection.
An aliphatic compound is the reason for the long-term stability of this kind of Polyurethane coating.
Properties of this are:
- Stability
- Quick drying
- Weather resistance
Its applications are:
- Engineering vehicles
- Medium-grade cars
- Containers
Polyester Polyurethanes
These take their name from polyester resin, which provides a durable finish. It resists salt, oil, gas, grease, skydrol, caustic, and most acids. It’s also known as the best kind of Polyurethane because of the following:
- Abrasion
- Scratch resistance
- Impact resistance
- Great gloss retention
- Amazing retention of color
Its usages are the following:
- Concrete floors for areas with high-traffic
- Exterior structural steel surfaces
- Airport hangars
- Service bay floors
Flexible Polyurethane Foam
This flexible foam cushion material is used for comfort and versatility.
Its properties are:
- Flexibility
- Malleability
- Durability
- Weather resistance
Used in:
- Cushioning
- Mattresses
- Furniture
- Vehicle interiors
Rigid Polyurethane Foam
This kind of foam regulate insulation during different seasons. It’s also known for helping with the regulation of exterior noises.
Properties of this are:
- Energy-efficient
- Versatile
Its applications are:
- Commercial Insulation
- Insulation for residential areas
Binders
These binders bond together. Due to this property, they are often used in housing applications.
Properties of this are:
- Strength
- Binding power
Its applications are:
- Manufactured housing components
- Wood panels
- Flooring materials
- Carpet underlays
You might want to also use these with concrete binders for better longevity and peak performance! Their uses and properties will be enhanced when you pair them together.
Reaction Injection Molding (RIM)
This kind of Polyurethane enters the picture, especially when injecting molding is not sufficient.
Properties of this are:
- Different wall strengths
- Dimensional stability
Its applications are:
- Car bumpers
- Computer enclosures
- Sporting goods
- Furniture
- Automotive manufacturing
Thermoplastic (TPU)
Their property for customizability makes them quite popular with manufacturing.
Properties:
- Elastic
- Abrasive-resistance
- Impact
- Customizable
- Transparency
- Temperature resistance
- Customizable
- Resists compression, injection, and extrusion
Applications and uses are:
- Construction
- Automotives
- Manufacturing
Waterborne Polyurethane Dispersions (PUDs)
This type of Polyurethane is used alongside a water-based solvent.
PUDS have these qualities:
- UV resistance
- Durability
- Adhesion
- Water resistance
- Chemical resistance
- Eco-friendly
They’re used in:
- Furniture
- Parquet
- Textile finishing
- Automotive coatings
- Industrial coatings
Polyurethane Coatings Uses: For Foam, Paint, Wood, Steel and Others
Coatings of Polyurethane For Foam
Flexible Polyurethane works so well for cushioning and used as foam. Several consumer and commercial products are created in different levels of firmness and shape variety. They are also light and comfortable, with supportive properties.
Softer materials are used for uses that are short-term. More luxurious and quality material are reserved for bay window cushions. Due to the durability of the material, it is used for fabric car seats.
Due to the versatility and beneficial properties of the material, Polyurethane has been used in many industries and products.
Aerospace
Temperature changes are common in flight. Due to this notable variable, Polyurethane foam is used in parts of the aircraft so that there is insulation for the structure and the passengers in it. It provides a strong and sound barrier and helps seal in cabin pressure.
Polyurethane coatings, on the other hand, provide protection in aircrafts. The ones that are acrylic-based act as a buffer for window panes and light coverings.
Automotive
Foam produced from Polyurethane is also commonly used in the automotive industry. These range from seat cushions to the steering wheels, bumpers, and doors. The coatings themselves are used in exterior paint and exterior maintenance due to their power to maintain color and gloss retention.
Construction
Construction is one of the industries where polyurethane is prevalent. The coatings are widespread because for construction, the material is applied as a coating for its corrosion prevention and durability.
Appliances
White goods are another name for electronics and appliances. Polyurethane coatings are the material behind fancy exterior gloss and different color options – and the protection against heat, rust over time. It also helps ensure that your appliances have longevity in terms of performance and appearance.
Military
Man and machine depend on advanced polyurethanes for protective purposes. The coatings aid in sealing and protection, especially in extreme conditions for aircraft, naval vehicles, personal protective equipment for soldiers, and diving equipment.
Polyurethane Coating Vs. Other Coatings [Epoxy, Etc.]
Polyurethane Coating Vs. Epoxy
Commercial and industrial facilities commonly use epoxy flooring and polyurethane floor coatings. Notably, they need to be reliable as they undergo a lot of impact.
Similarities:
- Good choices for their functions
- Effective in flooring protection
Differences:
- Epoxy coatings have better visuals
- They are also more rigid
- Epoxy is also better at resisting larger amounts of water
- Polyurethane is more hardwearing and can withstand wet and dry conditions
Polyurethane Coating Vs. Ceramic
Ceramic coatings are defined as a polymer and chemical solution. They’re usually put to work to protect vehicles from external paint damage and done by hand.
Similarities:
- Both are effective in ensuring paint and function longevity
Differences:
- Ceramic coatings bond chemically with car paint
- Polyurethane coatings have a better barrier
- They also are more effective protection against impacts that can cause scratches and chips
Polyurethane Coating Vs. Alkyd
Similarities:
- Alkyd and polyurea coatings are easy to apply
- They also dry fast
Differences:
- Alkyd coatings are more affordable
- They are also more effective for areas with lower foot traffic
Considerations for Polyurethane Coating Uses
- Budget: Your project may be working with a set budget. There may be areas that you want to max out within the budget – or you might have to use more cost-effective materials for certain parts of the project to remain within budget.
- Function: What product or service do you plan on using Polyurethane coatings for? If you want support or something, then Polyurethane is a good choice.
- Other Materials You’re Working With: If you plan on using Polyurethane coatings for your project, always remember to check and research the other materials you are working with. This is crucial because the materials will have a better chance of longevity and a more productive outcome if these materials are compatible.
Get Polyurea Coatings Near Me With Sealbond
Polyurethane is one of the most reliable and versatile materials in construction. With its many uses, it has become the go-to material for producing protective and supportive materials. Most of all, its protective properties have also been utilized in its coating forms.
Sealbond is a leading construction chemical company in the Philippines. We offer reliable industrial floor coatings and custom-made products that meet your construction needs. Secure quality products and services with Sealbond today!
