Matthew Sumpter
Coatings Chemist
Hexion Inc.
A Novel, Lower Yellowing, Faster-Cure Epoxy System for Indoor Concrete Protection
Epoxy floor coatings typically combine a liquid epoxy resin with a cycloaliphatic amine. To protect the epoxy coating layer from abrasion and UV degradation, a polyurethane topcoat is typically applied. However, this means exposure to isocyanate, longer time before return to service and higher costs. To overcome these shortcomings, a solvent-free, ultra-low-yellowing epoxy system with improved hardness development has been developed for floor coatings. Coating testing data from accelerated weathering, as well as property development under a range of temperature and humidity conditions will be summarized in this presentation. Blush resistance under high humidity conditions is a specific challenge that has been successfully addressed by this new system. The performance of this novel epoxy system is evaluated in clear enamel and white gloss coatings. This lower-yellowing epoxy system is recommended for indoor-durable applications as a single-layer coating to replace two-layer coating systems.