Ultra low emission epoxy systems for long term metal protection

Epoxy-based paints are very well-established coating systems for metal protection in marine and protective applications. However, today the coatings industry is faced with the constant challenge of providing solutions that comply with both emerging VOC regulations, and more varied and stringent environmental protection standards across the globe.

Modern marine coatings must not contain any hazardous air pollutants that can harm human health, nor should they cause any negative environmental impact on the world’s oceans. Removing solvents and plasticizers in paint formulations help, but these high solid formulations experience difficulties in offering good balance of pot-life, dry time, viscosity and flexibility. While, the plasticizers used can also slowly leach out of coatings decreasing flexibility over time and changing the performance of the coating, increasing maintenance costs.

To overcome those challenges, we have developed a new class of amine curing agent technology, which allows the design of ultra low emission epoxy paints without compromising in handling or performance properties of the traditional solvent-based systems. Our smart designed technology exhibits very low viscosity, requiring little or no plasticizers for full cure to ensure the coatings are more likely to maintain the performance over their service life. At the same time, it yields high barrier properties, excellent flexibility and very good adhesion on metals. Breakthrough developments like this are helping to ensure marine coatings meet stringent new VOC emission regulations without comprising performance.

Please note that products may not be available in every country. Consult with your area sales manager for further information.