Natural resources are limited and constantly depleting due to human negligence. It’s important to make responsible decisions and lead a socially vigilant life. The very concept of sustainability stems from the notion that this generation takes what’s needed while leaving enough for more generations to come.
Manufacturing and industrial activities are largely to blame for the damage done to the environment. Pollution, increased carbon emission, and environmental degradation are only a few menacing effects of industrialization.
Surprisingly, new advancements in major industries have led to sustainable solutions. Polyurethane is one of them. Wondering what it is and how it’s sustainable? Read on.
Polyurethane: New Era of Coating, Adhesives & Much More
Polyurethane is instrumental in preserving the earth’s resources. Unlike its traditional counterparts, polyurethane coatings enhance the lifespan of products beyond convention. This material saves energy sources and better insulate structures to reduce oil, electricity, and gas consumption.
Thanks to the many benefits of polyurethane, the automotive industry can now design better-looking and strongly-protected vehicles using lighter frames. This, in turn, also reduces emissions and fuel consumption. Similarly, polyurethane foams are also the preferred mode of insulation in refrigerators to keep the food preserved.
While these are only a few industrial polyurethane applications, technological advances have further improved its sustainability. The new, advanced waterborne polyurethane is even a better and more sustainable option.
Waterborne Polyurethane
Whether it’s the final finish for wood flooring, industrial coating, or even shiny touch to an automotive interior, you need to apply polyurethane. Waterborne polyurethane has replaced traditional oil-based polyurethane. It maintains an attractive sheen of the surface while maintaining the protective layer.
Before water-based polyurethane, oil-based polyurethane was an industry standard. Thanks to technological breakthroughs, water-based polyurethane has evolved to meet the demand for safer, efficient, and eco-friendly products.
Here’s why waterborne polyurethane is a safer option for major industries:
1. Lower Eco-footprint
The greatest benefit of waterborne polyurethane products is no exposure to VOCs (volatile organic compounds). VOCs are unsafe for people because they exhibit noxious fumes. So if a homeowner picks waterborne polyurethane coatings for wood flooring, they’re practically choosing a safe product for their loved ones and pets.
Oil-based counterparts contain carcinogens such as ethylene glycol and benzene due to petroleum-derived substances. They emit strong noxious fumes for 24 hours after application. They can affect air quality indefinitely, even after the coat dries. Oil-based polyurethane is also flammable. This is another reason water-based polyurethane is a safer and eco-friendly option for a healthier atmosphere.
Water-based polyurethane coating is a natural and sustainable alternative to replace oil solvents with plant-based substances. It’s the best choice for industrial coating and adds shine to the automotive interior without harming the environment. So if you pick water-based polyurethane, you can avoid risking exposure to VOCs.
2. Faster Drying Time
Unlike oil-based polyurethane, waterborne polyurethane dries faster. You can choose any many coats as you want, and they’ll dry out in a few hours. It saves time for industries because the operations can resume to normal after coating the machinery.
There’s no residue or odor in water-based polyurethane. After coating wood flooring with water-based polyurethane, you can walk on it on the same day. Contrarily, oil-based polyurethane can take 24 hours to dry and some days before toxic fumes subside.
3. Highly Durable
Water-based polyurethane is a safer and more durable option for manufacturers and industries. As manufacturers gain a deeper understanding of the chemistry behind polyurethane, they deliver highly abrasion-resistant water-based polyurethane.
The role of additives and binders can’t be overlooked. New and improved additives and binders make water-based polyurethane more durable and resistant to wear and weather. This means the products have a longer lifespan.
This ultimately results in a lower cost of repair and maintenance. For industries looking to enhance the quality of their machinery, they can opt for water-based polyurethane coatings. It adds a protective layer to avoid scratches on the metal. The more abrasion-resistant machinery is, the lower chances for industries to dumb old equipment. It reduces carbon footprint and promotes sustainable practice.
4. Clear Finish
Water-based polyurethane adds a clear finish. It’s also versatile, which means you can opt for a matt, gloss, or satin finish of your choice. Whatever you choose, the coat maintains its original color. It also adds an authentic look to the wood flooring. Unlike oil-based polyurethane that can change color immediately after exposure to UV, water-based polyurethane filters UV damage.
Buy Sustainable PUD from Reliable Water-Based Polyurethane Supplier
Both water-based polyurethane and sustainability go hand-in-hand. You don’t have to burn your budget to be sustainable. Visit Siwo US – the reliable water-based polyurethane supplier in the US – to incorporate sustainability into your business or home.
Operating since 1995, Siwo US offers waterborne polyurethanes for industrial coatings, wood, synthetic leather, textiles, plastics, and more industries. Explore the industries they serve and learn more about their sustainable approach. Alternatively, you can also explore their products or contact them for more information.
Guest article written by: The author writes passionately about sustainable practices in industries, and their work is highly acclaimed in the automotive, wood, and textile industry.