There are many different organic coating materials to choose from that can handle a wide range of challenges. Over the years it has become apparent that there is a need to be more environmentally conscious not only for our planet’s sake, but for our health as well. Armed with this knowledge, manufactures have been working toward lowering the VOC (volatile organic compounds) in their products, which benefits everyone.
The definition of an organic coating is; a kind of coating whose main ingredients are obtained from vegetable or animal substances, or compounds that are strong in carbon. The coat will be monolithic (one layer) or it can consist of two or more layers.
Industrial Uses
There is an extensive amount of industrial uses for organic coatings, but for the sake of time we will only name a few:
- Aviation
- Bridges
- Industrial Buildings and Structures
- Marine Structures and Transportation
- Municipal Potable Water and Wastewater Systems
- Nuclear Industries
- Paper and Pulp Mills
- Pipelines
- Transportation
This list is small, but it shows the diverse range of capabilities that this form of coatings can handle when it comes to industrial jobs.
Organic Coating Categories
When it comes to classifying organic coatings, there are four overall types. They include:
High Solids
These have elevated amounts of resin absorption when it comes to solid components, such as binders, pigments and additives. They can be water-based or reduced solvent, compared to traditional coatings with a higher rating of volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Some of the resins that are included in this classification are:
- Acrylics
- Alkyds
- Epoxy
- Polyurethane
- Saturated Polyesters
The benefit of these compounds is reduced pollution. This is because they have a reduced solvent use – as these solvents have a high concentration of resin.
Powder
Does not require a solvent to be added. It is made from either thermoplastic or thermoset polymer. There is a low rate of waste when the powder is projected onto the substrate correctly. Any leftover powder can be reused when a reclamation system is in place.
The two ways the powder is fluidized are:
- A powder electrostatic air spray gun
- Air flow up through a specialized bed
Some of the polymers that are used for the powder coatings are:
- Fusion bonded, polyester and straight epoxys
- Polyester
- Polyurethane
Pollution Benefits Include –
- Does not need or use solvents
- Better for employee’s health
- Is one hundred percent solid
- Reduces risks such as; explosive resistant and reduced fire hazards
Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation Cured
Are formed from ingredients that are cross-linked or cured by using an elevated concentration of radiation energy from either electron rays or an ultraviolet radiation light.
General Mixtures Contain:
- Photoinitiator
- Oligomer and monomers for their low-weight responsive resources
- Colorants, fillers, surfactants, wetting agents, defoamers, as well as other traditional coating additives
Pollution Benefits Include –
- One hundred percent reactive liquid form
- Solvents are not needed, or is required only lightly within the coating
Water Based
The solvent portion of this coating is made up of eighty percent water for dispersing the resin. Since water makes up a large part of the solvent, it lowers the volatile organic compound (VOC) rating.
Bases Include:
- Latex
- Synthetic polymer-based products
Pollution Benefits Include –
- Reduction or elimination of solvent use
- Low diluter concentration
- Can clean with water
As you can see, organic coatings have come a long way in providing us the reliable products we use today. They need to withstand the day to day borage of harmful elements used in industrial industries. Organic coatings are taking over their predecessors, which is healthier for us and our environment.
Not only have paint and coating corporations rose to the challenge of creating low volatile compounds with the use of organic materials, but they are also constantly researching new ways to make them even better.
Organic coatings range from easy application to more complex application. For these more complex organic coatings, you will have the need of a professional. Some also work better in harsher environments than others, so when looking into the use of organic coatings you will need to research the required specifications for your project. If you need help with figuring out the exact formula that fits your job, you can rely on a certified company near you.
