Understanding How Polyurea Coating Works
Understanding How Polyurea Coating Works
Definition. Polyurea is a general term for polyurea, which is a mixture of synthetic polyurea, or resin, with various polyurea resins. There are many polyurea companies in the market, and each one claims to have invented the polyurea coating. In fact, polyurea is not a single compound, but rather a series of compounds having different properties. Thus, polyurea coating can only be developed by reacting polyurea resins with a host polyurea compound, and is not a true polyurea product in itself.
Chemistry. Polyurea coating is a complex isocyanation process. Polyurea is made up of different polyurea components, which include isocyanates. Isofluramic acid is considered to be a useful starting polyurea compound, while other isocyanates are not. It is the use of certain isocyanates that determines the final properties of the polyurea coating. Examples of commonly used isocyanates include polyurea resins, polyurea clays, polyurea powders and polyurea nondestructive powder.
Identification of Components. Polyurea coating involves both physical and chemical properties, which are important in determining the final quality of the coating. One important aspect is identification of the proper starting polyurea compound. This starts the surface preparation, which may include buffing, washing, drying, etc. Once the proper starting compound is identified, surface preparation can proceed, which may include rinsing, heat buffing, sanding or ultra-violet treatment.
Application. The application process of polyurea coating begins by spraying the liquid polyurea coating on the target surface. After spraying, it is followed by application of a curing agent, such as a silica gel or other solutions. This curing agent may be a liquid or a powder, depending upon the type of coat. Other methods such as a roller process or a brush process can also be used.
Roll-off and Spray-off methods. In roll-off polyurea coating, a thick urethane liquid or a foam is rolled onto the surface, which is then spat or sprayed into the air. Spray-off polyurea coating uses a high pressure stream to roll the urethane or foam onto the surface, which is then spat or sprayed into the air. Both these methods are used to prepare polyurea coats for different applications, depending on the need.
Both types of coating are quite similar, and both provide good resistance to abrasion. However, there are some important differences between polyurea coating and abrasion resistant polyurea. Polyurea coatings are generally more durable than abrasion resistant polyureas, and the properties are better suited to industrial, automotive and marine applications. The coating can also withstand heat treatment at ambient temperatures up to 350 degree Celsius, and this property makes it a popular choice for garage flooring.