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PROTECTING YOUR WORLD

Important Things to Know About Polyurea Coatings

    IMPORTANT THINGS
    TO KNOW ABOUT POLYUREA COATINGS

    IMPORTANT THINGS
    TO KNOW ABOUT POLYUREA COATINGS

    WHAT ARE POLYUREA COATINGS?

    Polyurea is an advanced coating material offering a strong and highly elastic protective layer. Unlike other coating materials, polyurea requires no additional heat or chemical catalysts, making it highly efficient to produce. Like polyurethane, one of the most widely used polymers worldwide, polyurea stands out because of its ability to resist wear and tear, handle various chemical exposures without degrading, and maintain flexibility. 
    These characteristics offer an effective solution for safeguarding various surfaces across numerous industries, ensuring longevity and durability while saving time, money, and precious resources. Whether it’s for industrial machinery, construction, protective gear, or anything in between, the robustness and adaptability of polyurea make it a go-to choice for safe and enduring protection.

    types of polyurea coatings

    Polyurea coatings are classified into two main types: aliphatic and aromatic. The key difference between the two lies in their response to ultraviolet (UV) light.
    aliphatic polyurea

    Aliphatic polyurea is known for its UV resistance, maintaining its color and structural integrity even when exposed to direct sunlight, making it an ideal choice for outdoor applications. Its ability to resist yellowing and degradation over time is a significant advantage for maintaining the aesthetic and functional qualities of the coated surface.

    aromatic polyurea

    On the other hand, aromatic polyurea offers a more robust and cost-effective option but is more susceptible to UV light, leading to potential fading and deterioration in outdoor environments. Despite this, its strength and durability make it a suitable option for indoor or less UV-intensive applications. Both types share the core benefits of polyurea, including rapid curing, strong adhesion, and exceptional resistance to chemicals and abrasion, allowing for tailored solutions based on specific environmental and usage requirements.

    Polyurea pipeline coating

    properties & advantages of polyurea

    Polyurea is distinguished from other polymers for its exceptional properties, which contribute to its broad applicability and effectiveness as a protective coating. It boasts rapid curing time, meaning it sets and becomes effective quickly while also offering robust protection against wear, tear, and abrasion. Polyurea’s resistance to chemicals and environmental elements like water and extreme temperatures make it a versatile choice for individuals and industries ranging from construction to automotive. 
    One of the standout features of polyurea is its elasticity, allowing it to stretch and move with the materials it coats, reducing the risk of cracking or peeling under stress or movement. This flexibility, combined with its capacity to adhere strongly to various substances from metal to concrete, ensures that polyurea coatings remain intact and effective, providing a reliable barrier against physical and chemical challenges. These properties expand the lifespan of the materials they protect and contribute to polyurea’s cost-effectiveness as a protective solution, offering significant advantages over other coating technologies.
    key benefits of polyurea coatings include:​​
    FAQ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS​​
    Polyurea is a more advanced technology than epoxy and has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its superior performance. Polyurea is less toxic than epoxy, which makes it an appealing choice for environments where humans inhabit space, such as industrial facilities, healthcare settings, food processing and packaging plants,
    In industrial settings where excessive abrasion may occur but no chemical wear is expected (e.g., warehouse floors), a well-applied and properly maintained polyurea coating can last around 20 – 25 years, depending on foot traffic and other environmental conditions. It’s important to note that proper maintenance is key in ensuring the longevity of any protective coating; regular inspections should be made for signs of damage or deterioration, while proper cleaning techniques should be followed during routine maintenance activities for optimum results.

    Under certain conditions, yes, polyurea can potentially crack. This is because polyurea is a thermoplastic material like many other protective coatings and liners. It can become brittle and eventually crack when exposed to a sudden or excessive temperature change of more than 40°F (22°C).

    This cracking usually occurs in two ways – crazing or micro-fracturing. Crazing refers to the formation of small cracks in the surface of the coating due to shrinkage after application. Micro-fracturing involves deeper cracks caused by increased coating stress due to the expansion or contraction of substrate materials beneath it.

    The best way to prevent polyurea coatings cracking is to prepare carefully before application and properly cure afterward. For example, make sure that all surfaces are clear from dirt, dust, grease, oil stains, etc., before applying the coating, as these can cause adhesion failure, which could lead to cracking down the line. Also, be aware that some substrates are prone to absorption when wetted: if dampness has occurred from snow melt or rainfall, for example, then additional time should be taken for adequate drying before application so as not to risk shrinkage during cure time later on, which could again result in craze cracking over time. Finally, ensure that you follow your manufacturer’s instructions and adhere strictly to their recommended drying times for optimal performance; any deviations here will also strain your polyurea.

    Yes, polyurea works on many surfaces like concrete, metal, wood, fiberglass, and others. It’s highly versatile as it fits any shape and sticks to a multitude surfaces. proper surface preparation is crucial for it to stick well and last long.

    APPLICATIONS OF POLYUREA COATINGS

    The versatility of polyurea coatings is showcased in their wide range of applications across sectors, demonstrating their ability to provide reliable protection under diverse conditions. In the construction sector, polyurea safeguards buildings and structures against weather extremes, water intrusion, and chemical exposure, significantly extending their lifespan. Its rapid curing time allows for quick application and minimal downtime, a critical advantage in fast-paced and often delayed construction projects.
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    AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY

    In the automotive industry, polyurea’s impact resistance and durability help protect vehicles from corrosion and wear, while its elasticity helps absorb vibrations and noise, enhancing the longevity and comfort of automotive parts. Marine applications benefit from polyurea’s excellent water resistance, protecting ships and marine structures from the harsh marine environment, reducing maintenance needs, and preserving materials for years to come.

    DEFENSE & SECURITY

    Polyurea’s adaptability also extends to more specialized uses, such as in protective coatings for military and defense equipment, where its impact absorption properties are critical for protecting military assets and helping our soldiers do their jobs as safely as possible.

    Defense Security Coatings
    Agriculture Box

    AGRICULTURAL INDUSTRY

    Agricultural equipment coated with polyurea withstands the corrosive effects of chemicals and the abrasive wear from soil and crops, preserving the machinery’s value and functionality. In industrial settings, polyurea’s chemical and abrasion resistance is invaluable for protecting tanks, pipelines, and flooring, ensuring operational safety and efficiency.

    THE POLYUREA COATING PROCESS

    The application process of polyurea coatings is a key factor in their efficacy and longevity. It begins with meticulous surface preparation, which involves cleaning the substrate (the surface being coated) to remove any contaminants, oils, or debris to help ensure optimal adhesion of the coating. Next, the polyurea mixture is quickly applied due to its rapid curing characteristics, perfect for time-sensitive projects.
    Utilizing specialized spray equipment, the polyurea is evenly distributed over the surface, where it bonds strongly and cures rapidly to form a seamless, durable protective layer. This fast curing time also reduces the risk of contamination and allows for a faster return to service, to the great benefit of operational timelines and financial constraints. Proper application ensures that the coating adheres effectively, providing a resilient barrier against various forms of wear, chemicals, and environmental conditions. Adherence to the correct application process is crucial for maximizing the protective qualities of polyurea coatings, helping deliver its full range of benefits for as long as possible.

    safety & environmental considerations

    Applying polyurea coatings requires careful safety and environmental management. Due to the chemicals involved in the application process, it’s crucial for operators to wear appropriate protective gear, including safety glasses, gloves, and respirators, to prevent exposure to potentially harmful isocyanates and other chemical components.
    From an environmental perspective, polyurea coatings are favored for their eco-friendly profile. They’re typically solvent-free, emitting no voltage organic compounds (VOCs) during applications, aligning with the increasing demand for safer and more sustainable construction materials and methods. Furthermore, the durability of polyurea coatings contributes to environmental conservation by extending the life of treated surfaces, reducing the need for frequent repairs or replacements, and, consequently, the associated waste.

    Proper handling and disposal of polyurea and its components should always adhere to local regulations to ensure its application remains safe for the applicator and the environment. However, with proper safety procedures in place, polyurea coatings offer a safer, more sustainable solution for protective coatings.

    ARMORTHANE's expertise
    in polyurea coatings
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    AN INDUSTRY LEADING PROVDER

    ArmorThane is an industry-leading provider of polyurea coatings, bringing unmatched expertise and innovative new technologies. With years of experience, ArmorThane offers the highest-quality polyurea solutions for a wide range of applications, from industrial and automotive to construction and defense.

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    COMMITMENT TO QUALITY

    Our commitment to quality is evident in every coating we produce and apply, ensuring superior durability, flexibility, and protection against even the harshest conditions. ArmorThane’s polyurea coatings are meticulously engineered for faster curing times, optimized adhesion, and long-lasting performance.

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    COMPREHENSIVE SUPPORT AND TRAINING

    We also offer comprehensive support and training to help empower our customers to apply ArmorThane’s advanced coatings safely and effectively. Our dedication to advancing polyurea coating technology, combined with our commitment to customer service, positions ArmorThane as a trusted leader in the field, ready to meet the diverse needs of our partners.

    BE YOUR OWN
    BOSS START A COATINGS BUSINESS

    A small investment for coating equipment and products will get you started in a new polyurea, polyurethane, and spray foam business or increase the revenue of an existing company. With no franchise fees or royalties, starting a business or other ArmorThane dealer business is a relatively low cost venture.

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    NO FRANCHISE FEES
    No franchise fees or royalties, makes it a relatively low cost venture.
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    TRAINING PROVIDED
    We provide personal training to get your system up and going.
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    24/7 CUSTOMER SUPPORT
    Dedicated support team ready to assist you anytime you need us.

    Interested in learning more? Contact us today to see how we can help. Together, let’s build a stronger future, one layer at a time!

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