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Do you know what polyurethane (PU) is? This is one of today's most versatile polymers due to its properties - such as abrasion and impact resistance to chemical attack. Well-known in the chemical paint market, the material can be used to waterproof industrial floors, pipes and mining components, for example.
With years of study and technological development at FCC, we have developed PU, polyurea and hybrid elastomeric coatings. They cure quickly and are a great option for companies that can't wait long to waterproof or protect their structures and are looking for new technologies that will increase the useful life of their equipment.
Unlike conventional polyurethanes, FCC's materials have characteristics that make them true allies for industries that need fast application and reduced downtime.
In this content, we will understand what FCC's fast-curing elastomeric polyurethane is. We'll also see how it (and its associations with polyurea) can be used as a coating in various sectors. Check it out!
Polyurethane is a polymer formed from the chemical reaction between two main components: polyol and isocyanate. The material can have different properties depending on the variations in this formulation, as well as the additives and fillers added. Strength, flexibility, durability and other physical and chemical attributes can vary according to this composition.
Because of these elaborations, PU is very versatile. This makes it suitable for manufacturing a wide range of products, such as upholstery foams, adhesives and, of course, industrial coatings.
The polymer has characteristics that can be exploited in the most diverse conditions. PU's main properties include:
Elastomeric coatings are solutions that create a barrier on surfaces. In other words, it's an anti-corrosion paint that increases the resistance of the areas where it is applied against corrosion, impacts and chemical or mechanical wear.
Polyurethane (alongside other polymers - such as polyurea) forms this fast-curing coating. It is therefore known for its speed of application.
In addition, waterproofing creates a uniform protective layer, without seams that compromise the material. This reduces failure points and improves the coating's performance over time.
With over 30 years of expertise, FCC stands out as a benchmark in coating solutions for the most diverse segments. We offer advanced solutions, combining the best properties of PU and polyurea for maximum performance.
FCC's elastomeric coating can be applied individually with PU or polyurea or in hybrid technology (polyurethane + polyurea). This brings together superior chemical resistance, flexibility and durability in anti-corrosion painting.
You already know that elastomeric PU is an option for those looking for resistance to abrasion and impact with chemical attack. In addition to fast-curing polyurethane, another polymer stands out in waterproofing: polyurea.
Check out details on coatings with different polymers!
Polyurea generates high-performance waterproofing, which cures quickly and adheres to the most diverse types of substrate. A striking feature is its mechanical resistance, which makes it essential for environments where it is necessary to withstand high levels of impact, abrasion and temperature variations. It therefore has superior durability and long-lasting protection.
As the name suggests, hybrid coatings combine the properties of elastomeric polyurethane and polyurea, balancing cost-effectiveness and performance. They are suitable for projects that require moderate resistance and adequate flexibility.
The durability of elastomeric coatings (whether polyurethane, polyurea or hybrid) varies according to several factors. Their composition, quality of application, thickness and the environmental conditions to which the waterproofed surface is exposed are some of them.
In general, it can be said that FCC waterproofing has a lifespan of approximately 10 years.
So far, we've seen what polyurethane is, we've learned about polyurea and how the combination of these polymers creates a high-performance hybrid coating. Now let's understand which sectors benefit from these properties.
The water and wastewater treatment sector, for example, uses elastomeric coating to cover tanks, pipes and reservoirs. The anti-corrosion paint protects against damage caused by aggressive chemicals, increasing the longevity of the structures.
In the mining industry, waterproofing is used to coat equipment subject to intense abrasion - such as conveyor belts and discharge chutes. Its properties minimize maintenance costs and the replacement of parts over time.
In the oil and gas sector, anti-corrosion paint is used on pipelines and structures exposed to harsh environments. In this way, the fast-curing material offers protection against highly corrosive chemical substances.
Industrial floors can also be coated, as this provides protection against heavy machine traffic, chemical agents and impacts. For this reason, the material is used in factories, warehouses and logistics sheds for an easy-to-maintain surface.
In addition to these applications, the polymer can be used to protect industrial installationsbridges, viaducts, ships, maritime platforms and various other structures. Its attributes make it an alternative to be studied for sites that require coatings to be applied quickly.
Compared to other materials (such as epoxy), FCC elastomeric coatings have these advantages for industry:
Each of these waterproofings has specific characteristics, as we have seen. The choice between them must take into account aspects such as the need for application and the particularities of the surface.
With FCC, you'll know exactly which of these elastomeric coatings meets your company's technical and business demands. So, to make a decision more in line with your demands, talk to our experts.
Throughout this content, we've looked at what polyurethane is, how it can be combined with polyurea, and how the hybrid coatings developed by FCC offer a fast-curing, highly durable solution for waterproofing.
We have also seen that choosing the right polymer is fundamental to guaranteeing the protection and longevity of industrial structures according to the particular needs of each environment.
So, to find the ideal coating, talk to our experts and find out how elastomeric waterproofing can improve the efficiency and durability of your projects.
