New ecologically friendly epoxy coating systems
Environmental protection is a key issue in our society. The desire of many consumers for toxin-free products, and the strict regulations now in place, mean that chemical manufacturers are constantly faced with the challenge of creating ever more environmentally friendly substitutes. With its Waterpoxy® range, Cognis is able to offer solutions that point the way forward.
Waterpoxy® 1455 is an innovative water-emulsified solid epoxy resin, and Waterpoxy® 751 is a water-soluble and solvent-free hardener with a very low amine content that can be used for protective coatings in both structural and civil engineering applications. Waterpoxy® 751 is a true multi-talent. Formulators can safely incorporate this hardener in both thin-film systems (e.g. primers and top coats) and thick-film systems (e.g. self-leveling floor coatings). The combination of both products leads to an effective resin/hardener system with very good corrosion protection performance and rapid curing. The latest edition to the family, Waterpoxy® 760, is particularly suited to high film thicknesses in floor coatings (> 2.0 mm).
Cognis’ Waterpoxy® range enables manufacturers to comply with the European Council directive on solvent emissions. As well as the environmental advantages of their reduced VOC content, Waterpoxy® coating systems also deliver a range of other practical benefits by virtue of their solvent-free formulation:
- Non-flammable/non-explosive
- Low free-amine content, significantly reducing the health risk to production workers and craftsmen
- Equipment can be cleaned with water instead of the solvent required in the case of conventional coating systems
- Can be thinned with water
- Can be applied directly to wet concrete
- Highly water breathable