EPS Hard Coatings;
Polyurea is a type of hard coating that has gained popularity in recent years due to its numerous benefits compared to traditional hardcoat coatings systems such as epoxy, rubber-latex, and GRP (glass reinforced plastic). Here are some five benefits of using polyurea as a hard-coating for EPS (expanded polystyrene):
Quick curing
One of the main advantages of polyurea is its fast curing time. It can cure in as little as 5 seconds, making it ideal for use in fast-paced environments where time is of the essence. In contrast, traditional coatings such as epoxy and rubber-latex can take hours or even days to cure completely.
High strength and durability
Polyurea is known for its exceptional strength and durability. It can withstand harsh environments and extreme temperature fluctuations, making it ideal for use in a variety of applications. It is also resistant to abrasion, impact, and chemical corrosion, making it a long-lasting and reliable coating solution.
Excellent adhesion
Polyurea has excellent adhesion properties, meaning it can bond strongly to a variety of surfaces including EPS. This makes it an ideal coating for use on foam products, as it can provide an added layer of protection and durability.
Versatility
Polyurea can be applied to a wide range of surfaces and in a variety of thicknesses, making it a versatile coating solution. It can be applied to both horizontal and vertical surfaces and can be used in a variety of industries including construction, transportation, and manufacturing.
Resistance to water
Polyurea is resistant to water and moisture, making it an excellent choice for use in damp or humid environments. It can also be used to seal and protect surfaces from water damage.
In conclusion, polyurea has numerous benefits as a hard-coating for EPS compared to traditional coatings such as epoxy, rubber-latex, and GRP. Its quick curing time, high strength and durability, excellent adhesion, versatility, and resistance to water make it an ideal choice for a wide range of applications.
How do you harden EPS and polystyrene with polyurea?
EPS and Polystyrene can be hardened with polyurea through a process called spray coating. Here is a general outline of the process:
- Prepare the surface: The surface of the EPS must be clean, dry, and free of any contaminants before applying the polyurea. Any dirt, dust, or debris on the surface can affect the adhesion of the coating and cause imperfections in the coating.
- Mix the polyurea: Polyurea is typically supplied as a two-part system, with a resin and a hardener. These two components are mixed together in the mix chamber of the specialist polyurea sray gun, most typically a Graco Fusion Gun or Propbler P2. The specialist guns ensure the proper ratio to create the coating.
- Apply the coating: The mixed polyurea is spray applied on to the EPS structure. It is important to apply the coating evenly and in a thin layers to ensure proper adhesion and to avoid drips or runs.
- Cure the coating: After the polyurea has been applied, it must be allowed to cure. The curing time will depend on the specific product used and the ambient temperature. Polyureas, such as PAXCON, dries in just a few seconds.
- Sand and finish: Once the coating has fully cured, it can be sanded to smooth out any imperfections and to achieve a uniform finish. It can then be painted or left as is, depending on the desired final appearance.
It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when hardening EPS and polystyrene structures with polyurea to ensure proper application and to achieve the best results.
Which industries require polyurea hard-coating for EPS and polystyrene?
Polyurea hard-coating for EPS and polystyrene is used in a variety of industries due to its versatility and numerous benefits. Some of the industries that commonly require polyurea hard-coating for EPS and polystyrene include:
Construction
Polyurea is often used as a protective coating for foam products in the construction industry. It can be used to coat foam insulation, foam crown molding, and foam trim to provide an added layer of protection and durability.
Transportation
Polyurea is often used as a coating for automotive and transportation products due to its ability to withstand extreme temperature fluctuations and harsh environments. It can be used to coat foam products used in the automotive and aviation industries, such as aircraft seats and automotive dashboards.
Packaging
Polyurea can be used to coat foam products used in packaging, such as foam coolers and foam inserts, to provide an added layer of protection and durability.
Manufacturing
Polyurea is often used as a coating for foam products in the manufacturing industry, such as foam gaskets and foam seals. It can also be used to coat foam products used in the production of appliances, such as foam insulators and foam pads.
Military and defense
Polyurea is used as a coating for foam products in the military and defense industry due to its ability to withstand extreme conditions and its resistance to abrasion and impact. It can be used to coat foam products used in military vehicles, such as foam seats.
Film Industry
Polyurea hard-coatings are often used in the film industry to protect and preserve various types of equipment and props. Overall, polyurea hard-coatings are an essential component of the film industry, providing protection and preservation for a wide range of equipment, props, and special effects.
Themepark Props and Art Sculptures
Polyurea hard-coatings are often used to protect and preserve themepark props and art sculptures created from EPS (expanded polystyrene). Polyurea is known for its exceptional strength and durability, making it an ideal coating for film props and sculptures. It can withstand harsh environments and extreme temperature fluctuations, helping to preserve and protect the foam products used in these applications. Polyurea hard-coatings are a valuable tool in the art world, providing durability, versatility, and customization for EPS sculptures.
Overall, polyurea hard-coating for EPS and polystyrene is used in a wide range of industries due to its strength, durability, versatility, and resistance to harsh environments.
If you’re reading this article about polyurea hard-coating for EPS structures, you’re probably considering using this advanced coating solution for your own project.
Take the next step
If you’re interested in using polyurea hard-coating for your EPS structures, the next step is to research and compare different products and suppliers. Look for a reputable company that offers high-quality polyurea products and has a proven track record of success.
Consider the benefits
Remember all of the benefits of using polyurea hard-coating for EPS structures: durability, versatility, quick curing time, resistance to water, and customization options. These benefits can save you time, money, and hassle in the long run.
Seek professional assistance
If you’re not sure where to start or have questions about the process, consider seeking the assistance of a professional. The team at PAXCON Industrial Coatings can help you choose the right product, prepare the surface, and apply the coating correctly to achieve the best results.
Don’t let the opportunity to enhance the durability and longevity of your EPS structures pass you by. Take action now and consider using polyurea hard-coating for your next project.
