M.L. Both professionals and amateurs have been using solvent-based 2-pack linear urethane paints (and now clear finishes) on boats for years; those made by Awlgrip and Interlux are most commonly used. EMTECH EM6500 WB Bright White / Custom Tint Lacquer, SIGN UP TO RECEIVE PROFESSIONAL WOOD FINISHING TIPS AND SPECIAL OFFERS, https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npg/default.html. Since the conditions of use are beyond our control, this company cannot assume responsibility for any risk or liabilities that may result from the use of its products. This option is by Appointment Only. Also, having water-like clarity they do not change the tone of the wood. Besides saving a step, you will reduce the amount of VOCs you are exhausting, which could be an important factor depending on where you live.? I am trying to make the full switch to EmTech, which offers other significant advantages. EuroBild is a popular choice for exotic woods and many upscale and high performance applications. Both formaldehyde, contained in most catalyzed finishes, and isocyanates, contained in 2K polyurethanes, are toxic substances. Pot life is not an issue, so you are not constantly batch-mixing and either running short or throwing away hot product. One thing that I did notice is that Bona eliminated Aziridine as the crosslinking option for their finishes. Do you have any experience with or questions about them? With conversion varnish you are limited to 5 mils (about three coats) to avoid the risk of the film cracking. Approximately 510-560 square feet per gallon at 1 dry mil. This product can be used as 2K with our CW-4002 Polyurethane Hardener. Aromatics cost less and dry faster, but they yellow more and have a shorter pot life (meaning that you have to be more careful to clean out your spray equipment often or the finish will cure and ruin it). For example if its used as a finish coating on kitchen cabinets? Arauco TFL MDF Melamine composite wood panel products. M.L. I have more information on this topic ready to share with my subscribers. Disclaimer: The information and suggestions in this website are, to the best of our knowledge, reliable. PU paint for metal provides awaterproof barrier between the substrate and the environment. In fact, catalyzed finishes such as conversion varnish have been almost totally replaced by two-part polyurethane. In addition, 2K polyurethane is easier to apply than conversion varnish because it is more forgiving in three areas. Yes, the fumes are lower with the WB/2Ks, but the compounding toxicity of repeat exposure to MDI leaves the shop or the user wide open to future health and liability issues. Some of its other strengths are: Polyurethane paint is attractive and protective. But formaldehyde is emitted from the finish for a considerable time after application, while isocyanates become totally reacted with the rest of the finish very quickly.Though manufacturers have been working hard to reduce and even eliminate (in some cases) the formaldehyde in their catalyzed finishes, most of these finishes still contain some formaldehyde.This is a big reason for 2K polyurethanes being more popular in Europe, where catalyzed finishes arent even allowed in some areas because of the health risks to consumers.Of course, both the isocyanates and the formaldehyde pose health risks to spray operators, but in neither case is this true if he or she is working in a proper spray booth and wearing an appropriate respirator.As with any case when trying a new and unfamiliar finish, be sure to read all data sheets and maybe even talk to a manufacturers representative if you do decide to try two-part polyurethane. I am mystified at this point because the BM person said the isocyanates are dangerous, but the SDS says theyre ok. And yes, I did look at the catalyst, not just the base. Aromatics cost less and dry faster, but they yellow more and have a shorter pot life (meaning that you have to be more careful to clean out your spray equipment often or the finish will cure and ruin it). To know your exposure level, you would need to perform time weighted average air sampling in the breathing zone, which for most of us is cost prohibitive. Perfect for office furniture and pub and bar environments. Its an alkyd varnish or water-based dispersion in which some isocyanate (a primary chemical in polyurethane) has been woven into the molecular structure. Actual coverage may vary depending on application technique, equipment and weather conditions I there concern about polyurethane being harmful for the end user? Copyright 2019 Distributor Service Incorporated. But formaldehyde is emitted from the finish for a considerable time after application, while isocyanates become totally reacted with the rest of the finish very quickly. According to the Architectural Woodwork Institute, it is more wear-, heat-, solvent-, moisture- and stain-resistant. Campbell Wood Target Coating is engineering a new line of finishes that are self-crosslinking and do not require an external additive to meet KCMA chemical test standards. This is a big reason for 2K polyurethanes being more popular in Europe, where catalyzed finishes arent even allowed in some areas because of the health risks to consumers. Designed for interior wood surfaces exposed to moisture, heat and household chemicals. Pore fillers, however, arent often used with 2K polyurethanes, because the finishes build so well that its usually less time-consuming just to sand the finish back if you want a mirror-flat surface.Adding to the versatility, 2K polyurethanes are also available as water-based finishes. You may have to search by the chemical abstract (CAS) number found in the SDS due to the fact chemicals can go by many different names or fall under a class of chemicals. IIRC, you can buy thru Target additional crosslinker (amine silane?) Polyurethane might be best known as a varnish-type finish available at paint stores and home centers. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) pocket guide (https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npg/default.html) is also a great source of information on chemical hazards. Have you noticed 2K polyurethanes or simply 2K urethanes are having a moment on social media lately? With more self-crosslinking polymers coming into use by coatings formulators the need for Aziridine has dropped way off the usage charts. I cannot get a definitive answer. Theres also two-part polyurethane, which is used as a finish on wood and metal and consists of two components that are mixed just before application. There are applications where you really want that last 10-15%, but Im happy with Targets line of 1-packs. Or is the main concern about the health of the person who would apply the coat? Used 2K Poly (not waterbased) for many years as a luthier. So, a proper spraying environment and PPE is a must! Polyurethane Clear is an Acrylic clear topcoat that gives excellent chemical resistance and 100% UV resistance. Therefore, 2K polyurethanes, which can be sprayed with all common spray systems, resemble epoxy finishes in their mixing characteristics more than catalyzed finishes.There are two large categories of these polyurethane finishes: aromatic and aliphatic. For Product delivery greater than 60 miles from the San Fernando Valley California please contact us for shipping information Polyurethane coating: Industrial, architectural, and automotive. Ive never seen anyone in a full suit with outside air. Two-part polyurethane is even more durable than conversion varnish. Polyurethanes excellent ability to withstand exposure to chemicals, high temperatures, harsh environments including salt water, wind, sand, wet soil and more, as well as being UV stable make it the perfect candidate. After they started getting popular I wondered by the American companies didnt make them; why only other countries. The EMTECH Brand Name is a registered trademark of Target Coatings, Inc. But polyurethane is a versatile resin with other common uses as well. Euro X Clear products are formulated for exterior use in varying climates and seasons. This will tell you how long ground/home delivery will take to arrive. In Europe, 2K polyurethane is very popular. EuroBild Clear So if you are off 1 or 2 percent, the effect on the curing isnt nearly as great with 2K polyurethane. I can see massive lawsuits in the future for these companies. I heard more than one story of individuals becoming ill while painting their boats with 2K urethanes. Designed to be used in interior and exterior applications where extreme weather-ability and chemical resistance are required. Campbells product line includes stains, sealers and paints. Your email address will not be published. ), For once-every-ten-years boat painting, maybe it makes sense. Contact the coating mfg to learn more about the full cure time for the finish in question. Bob Flexner is author of Understanding Wood Finishing and Flexner on Finishing.. Furthermore, they are very sensitive to conditions, like rising vs falling temperatures and ambient humidity. Some say full suit with outside air required. Catalyst sold separately I admit I use Bona floor finishes for many things in both cabinets and furniture, both for its very effective matte sheen (which is popular right now with architects and designers) and for its palette of sealers (6 tomes ranging from mild pickled effect to simulated oil-based effect). This article originally appeared in the July 2015 issue. Theautomotive coatings industrycovers everything from a vehicles colour coat to underbody protection and internal plastic coatings. Essentially,a polyurethane coating is a liquid plastic which dries to form a paint-like film on a substrate. Even though the higher solids and better durability largely make up for the added expense, the perception of higher cost is still there. The MSDS flat-out requires use of a positive pressure hood and remote air supply. 7450 Reseda BlvdReseda, CA 91335Schedule:Mon-Fri9:00 am - 6:00pmTels. Sand base-coat with 320-400 grit sandpaper. You just might need to sand the surface to create a mechanical bond if you wait too long. Note thatpolyurethane paint is not the best option for industrial heavy duty areas due to the fact that it lacks epoxys durability and theextreme chemical resistanceof phenolic coatings. Polyurethane is also sensitive for humidity especially during the application phase. May be applied over acrylic, nitrocellulose and UV Base-coats. I certainly have, and I must admit, I have some concerns about what is being said (or not said) about these products, particularly the ones being marketed as safer because they are water based. I really appreciate your covering this. We cant express how easy this 2K Polyurethane (PU) is to use. Compared to conversion varnish the most durable of the catalyzed finishes 2K polyurethane has a number of advantages, including the following: The solids content (that which remains after the thinner has evaporated) of 2K polyurethane is about 50 percent, while that of conversion varnish is about 35 percent after the catalyst is added. With that breadth of application in mind, we have listed some of the most common uses of polyurethane paints and what properties they bring to each. Unlike catalyzed finishes, which consist of the finish and an acid catalyst that doesnt add solids to the film, both parts in 2K polyurethanes add solids. I am surprised that Bona is offering an HDI catalyst for one of their floor coatings. May be mixed with tap water as needed. The pot life of 2K polyurethane can be as short as 3 or 4 hours. LGA230 has an extended pot life and simple 2:1 mix ratio. This finish applies and performs more like common varnishes and water-based finishes than it does like the purer types of polyurethane. Coverage: Adding to the versatility, 2K polyurethanes are also available as water-based finishes. You can apply the next coat of 2K polyurethane at any time without fear of wrinkling the previous coat, which contrasts sharply with the tight conversion-varnish recoat window. Product I would never risk my health just to make paint a little bit harder. EuroBild Clears offers excellent chemical and mar resistance. DSI Distributes M.L. But polyurethane is a versatile resin with other common uses as well. Weather resistance and UV stability Polyurethane can withstand harsh environments, from underground to offshore, as well as being stable when exposed UV radiation and having thermal stability across a range of temperatures. I dont see what the big deal is with isocyanates. The properties of a polyurethane can be manipulated by the types of isocyanates and polyols which are used to make it, and so it can be modified to suit a wide range of projects. There are two large categories of these polyurethane finishes: aromatic and aliphatic. From plywood paneling to melamine, from acrylic sheeting to composite MDF, and from wood finishing products to adhesives, DSI delivers them all to your door. But I think it uses isocyanate catalyst, and is some kind of urethane emulsion. When used as a sealer, use 220-320 grit sandpaper in between coats. Most of the crosslinking has been done for you under controlled conditions. Id love to know what YOU think about 2K polyurethanes. So the 2Ks have gotten extremely popular on social media, and no one is talking about the isocyanates. (162) (162), Measuring Cups, Cans, Mixers, & Razor Blades (23) (23), Solvents, Reducers, Catalysts & Additives (15) (15). By contrast, aliphatics cost more, but they have a longer pot life and they are fairly non-yellowing and resist destruction by UV light better than aromatics, so they are used in exterior situations. Designed for durability and performance on a variety of high-end architectural millwork, hardwood flooring, and cabinetry, it brings a natural, warm look to wood. They can be applied with stains and glazes, can be made into toners, can be rubbed out and are available in all sheens from gloss to flat. Test for adhesion and compatibility before full scale application. My instinct is that pre-cat products are much easier to use for the average person and small-shop professional. PRODUCT DESCRIPTION: 2022 Cruz Bay Publishing, Inc. an Active Interest Media company. They are extraordinarily difficult to work with, with steep learning curves and requiring perfect thinning and surface decontamination. Product Use, Technical Information and Safety Data Sheets. Youll hear shellac tossed around a lot as the best sealer, mostly in woodworking magazines targeting amateurs. Since the eyes, skin and respiratory system are all target organs for isocyanates you dont want to have any part of your body exposed when using the chemical. The benefits, in general, are superior durability and higher solids, so you can obtain high levels of physical performance and sometimes get away with using fewer coats. The part that is added is the isocyanate, which usually makes up a quarter to a third of the mix. When combined with its UV stability and its ability to withstand harsh weather and environmental conditions, this makes polyurethane an excellent anti corrosion coating. Provides an excellent (high solids) finish that is scratch and mar resistant and provides excellent moisture resistance. Clear High Build Quick Dry Sanding Sealer. The Centurion Catalyzed Top Coat requires a 4:1 mix. Fair risk of failed application tho (fish eyes, orange peel, runs) and the products are obscenely expensive, with proprietary everything (thinners, retarders, wiping solvents, primers. Extreme durability When cured, polyurethane forms a hard, durable surface which provides protection from mechanical abrasion, stains and scratches. HOWEVER. Do not count on a cartridge respirator to keep you safe, even if rated for isocyanates. Polyurethane paint provides durability, resistance to chemicals, water, abrasion, and temperature, as well as an attractive glossy finish. expertise, outstanding customer service, and prompt delivery always accompany Remove any loose or peeling paint. Warehouse is CLOSED on Saturdays & Sundays and all major holidays. When it comes to PPE for isocyanates, you should wear a Tyvek or similar full body suit, gloves, and respirator. I did see where one person said they started developing a rash on their arms from handling the dry cabinet doors that were sprayed with 2K, and they never had this before when using modified urethane products. Two-part polyurethane is even more durable than conversion varnish. Polyurethane is a popular protective coating for the architectural industry. Centurion Water-Based 2k Clear Polyurethane Top Coat 2800 Series, Centurion Water-Based 2k Polyurethane Top Coat 2800 Series, 1K/2K Clear Polyurethane Topcoat (semi-gloss). For more information, please visit this product's webpage. Campbell clear topcoats are ideal for commercial millwork, kitchen and bathroom cabinetry or general interior use. Subscribe to our newsletter for periodic updates and valuable coupons. I just need that matte sheen, and that range of tones in the sealers. Being as the world of 2K is a large one, I want to ensure that the history of water-based two component systems is touched upon. DSI distributes all of the most important raw materials used by cabinet builders and Please do not arrive unannounced. But their biggest danger is finely-atomized crosslinker, typically methyl isocyanate. Robert Thank you for sharing your notes about our isocyanate blog. Theres almost no practical limit to the amount of build you can get with 2K polyurethane and still achieve a stable film. They can be applied with stains and glazes, can be made into toners, can be rubbed out and are available in all sheens from gloss to flat. The EuroBilds high solids, water white formula was specifically designed for interior wood surfaces that are exposed to moisture, heat, and household chemicals. Ferrous/Non-Ferrous Metal One popular manufacturer Im told says once the hardener is mixed, isocyanates are bonded with the product and only a regular chemical filter respirator is required. EuroBild Clear is based on European style two-component polyurethane that offers exceptional high build and clarity. Contact Us for more details. High Performance Interior/Exterior Applications CIC, Centurion caytalist for the Centurian Polyurethane, CIC, Centurion Water based High Build Clear Sanding Sealer, CIC CW -3020 NATURAL LOOK POLYURETHANE TOP COAT, Excellent resistance to marring and chemicals, Meets or exceeds KCMA performance specifications. You can also visit our library of references and helpful tips at our wood finishing Blog at: www.woodfinishings.wordpress.com. Therefore, 2K polyurethanes, which can be sprayed with all common spray systems, resemble epoxy finishes in their mixing characteristics more than catalyzed finishes. They are the most preferred products for deep glossy and matt applications and applications on light veneers/woods where they retain the original color of wood without changing the tone. M.L. Campbell clear topcoat formulas are the best in the industry. All Rights Reserved. For this task polyurethane isused in storage and process tanks, reservoirs, wastewater treatment tanks, secondary containment, water pipe lining and oil and gas pipelines. For example, a full-face respirator with cartridges does not provide the same protection as that same full-face respirator with air supply. Visit our FAQ page here. Pore fillers, however, arent often used with 2K polyurethanes, because the finishes build so well that its usually less time-consuming just to sand the finish back if you want a mirror-flat surface. Ive come across many professional finishers, however, who believe they should be using shellac rather than the finish itself, a sanding sealer, vinyl sealer or a catalyzed sealer for a first coat. Isocyanates are a type of chemical sensitizer which means they act like an allergen upon subsequent exposures with further exposures leading to more adverse effects. The substrate needsprotection both from the external environmentandfrom the possibly corrosive contents it is storing. In addition, the better durability translates to 2K polyurethane being more difficult to repair invisibly and more difficult to strip if that becomes necessary at some point. However, offering isocyanates and aziridines for use in waterborne 2Ks is foolish and irresponsible. I dont think Sherwin Williams carries them, but I could be wrong on that. Unlike most competitive polyurethanes The advanced chemistry involved is such to give you extreme durability far superior to "polyurethane" products that require little or no catalyzation. -Matt It's possible you can pick a cheaper shipping option. Polyurethane resin has been around since the mid-20th century. 818-344-3000, This is just a test submission to show you how it looks, great, eh?Read More ->. Ive been using 1k products for kitchen and bathroom cabinets for about 8 years now, and have never gotten one call back. They can be used for steelwork, panelling, infrastructure, as a clear topcoat, a vibrant colour, or as a varnish (polyurethane paint for wood is one of the most popularwood floor coating choices). Plastic Water and chemical resistance Resistance to water, steam, moisture, and most chemicals means that polyurethane is a waterproof barrier, preventing corrosion of the substrate. 9:00am - 3:30pm Friday. And not just through inhalation; it is also absorbed through the skin and eyes. For whatever reason, two-part or 2K polyurethane has never really caught on in the United States for finishing wood, but it is available.In Europe, 2K polyurethane is very popular. Of course, both the isocyanates and the formaldehyde pose health risks to spray operators, but in neither case is this true if he or she is working in a proper spray booth and wearing an appropriate respirator. Our paint manufacturers certainly have the ability to make any product the foreign companies make. With conversion varnish you are limited to 5 mils (about three coats) to avoid the risk of the film cracking. Many amateurs paint their boat hulls in this fashion, safely and with acceptable results. Therefore, you might be able to get away with just two coats when you would apply three with conversion varnish.? Im waiting on a few expert sources to answer some specific questions I have, and Id like to incorporate yours, too, if you have them. The part that is added is the isocyanate, which usually makes up a quarter to a third of the mix. Most polyurethanes made for interior use are a combination of the two types, which combines their characteristics and leaves you to choose products based on tradeoffs of cost, pot life and yellowing. Health issuesBoth formaldehyde, contained in most catalyzed finishes, and isocyanates, contained in 2K polyurethanes, are toxic substances. You are 100% correct in saying they are quite hazardous, especially in the hands of anyone untrained or under equipped. Like an epoxy it is easy to apply, but polyurethane has faster return-to-service times than epoxy. Its these downsides (the health and safety profile) that Im concerned is not being talked about enough at least not on the blogs and social media posts Ive been seeingand the ones you might be seeing, too. I contacted a person in Benjamin Moore that I met at a trade show who knows pretty much everything about the BM products, and he said Benjamin Moore made a decision as a company not to make products with isocyanates, to not expose their employees or customers to those chemicals, so they were not making or planned to make 2K polys. your purchase. Very forgiving, lays down like glass; also one of the most toxic substances known to man. VOC:96 gms./liter We Won Many Awards and Certificates. Unlike some of the people showing up in our inboxes and social media feeds, I am trying to get the FACTS (not just clicks and attention) before I give you my better-informed opinion about these products in an upcoming post. This finish applies and performs more like common varnishes and water-based finishes than it does like the purer types of polyurethane.Two-part polyurethanes are pure polyurethanes. The single-pack polyurethane finish sold in home centers is not a true polyurethane. Disclaimer: I am an industrial hygienist; this posting is strictly informational and in no way my professional opinion and should not be used as such. RECOMMENDED USAGE: I wouldnt recommend using isocyanates unless you can accurately determine your exposure level and provide appropriate controls to the process. See Terms & Conditions, Phone:800.752.9922 (USA & Canada)+1.201.821.0150 (International), Sales / Administration / Warehouse:Target Coatings, Inc.17-12 River RoadFair Lawn, NJ 07410 USADirections for online order pickup, Water Based SealersWater Based PrimersWater Based LacquersWater Based VarishesWater Based UrethanesWater Based Pigmented LacquersWater Based StainsWater Based Additives.