Polyurea – The New Generation of Lining and Coating

Abstract

Few seconds setting time, superior flexibility along with high mechanical strength and moisture insensitivity are only a small portion of the characteristics of the unique technology named Polyurea. This technology is on the move around the globe and recently some intriguing projects were done also in Israel. This paper is a brief introduction of the Polyurea technology. Nearly two decades ago, a new technology was introduced to the world. It was not an innovative semi-flexible Epoxy, with a better UV stability. Nor was it a new kind of fast set Urethane, with improved chemical resistance. Rather, it was a new generation of polymers, which is free of some of the drawbacks of the old conventional coatings. It is well known, for example, that epoxies excels in chemical resistance, high mechanical strength and hardness. However, it is also known that in spite of the great advance of recent years, epoxies still tend to be brittle and crack due to thermal stress and other causes. Chalking and yellowing caused by UV exposure is another notorious characteristic of Epoxies. Urethanes on the other hand are very flexible and have excellent weatherabilty. But what about hydrolytic stability, moisture sensitivity during the application and chemical resistance issues? There is much room for improvement on this regard. Polyurea combines high mechanical strength, unusual elongation, excellent water resistance and good chemical resistance. UV stability of some Polyureas is nothing less than high quality aliphatic urethanes. Therefore, in recent years the Polyurea technology is on the move all over the world in diverse fields, such as the building, petrochemical and chemical industries, corrosion protection, flooring, water systems and wastewater treatment plants, bridges and tunnels, etc.