7 Things to know about polyurea coatings:

Looking back in the 20th Century, we see a wide range of coating techniques including; vinyl esters, paint,
epoxy, and even tar. These materials did their job just fine, but in the heftiest of ways. Thus, this loop
hole creating a need for new technology in the coating industry. Polyurea waterproofing coating
technology skyrocketed in the industry due to its wide-range applicability. This waterproof sealer
provides strong protection against degradation, abrasion, corrosion, chemicals etc. As evident, polyurea
coating is super elastic, highly flexible, and durable for protective coatings.

If you are looking forward to a suitable protective coating, chances are that you need to explore more
about the polyurea coating. So, give a read to the seven interesting things that you must know about
polyurea coating:

1. What is Polyurea?
The first question that arises in our minds is the nature of polyurea itself. Polyurea is an elastomer,
created in the early 1980s, in the search of a less moisture sensitive material than the urethane-based
coatings. Quite successfully, polyurea proved to have excellent abrasion resistance and it also had
desired water-tight qualities. Whether you use polyurea, or blend it with polyethylene, you will
experience excellent protection, and long-lasting results.

2. Unique feature of Polyurea:

Polyurea is a unique protectant that cannot be competed by any technology that currently exists. The
physical properties of polyurea makes it stand out from the rest. The tensile strength is up to 5000psi,
with its tear strength nearly 500lbs/in. It has a fast-setting time of 3 to 5 minutes with a finely
controllable coating thickness. Polyurea can be sprayed at the desired temperature due to its low
viscosity and it offers a stable resistance to heat up to 130 degree Celsius. Furthermore, it is durable to
weather and environmental change, has superior chemical resistance, and provides extraordinary
elongation properties.

3. Applicability in Industry:
Today, the industry depends on polyurea for high-standard coating and waterproofing. Host industries
includes, construction companies, concrete industry, steel industry, coal mining industries, and many
more. Concrete industries use polyurea for protective and waterproof surfaces, surface repair, and in
providing floor sealers. While, construction industries can use it for erosion protection, corrosion-
resistance and waterproofing. These are just a few examples to state, while the list of polyurea’s
applicability goes on and on.

4. Forms of Polyurea Spray Coating:

The hardness of polyurea spray coating, depends highly on its formulation. The hardness of this fast-
setting spray depends on the requirements of your application. It can be chosen based off your
requirements of spray coating and environmental-resistance properties, which can be altered by using
different chemical combinations. The polyurea spray can come in the form of hard or rubber-like, foam
or elastomeric, matt or glossy, clear or coloured, and thin layer or designed with fillers.
 5. Best Application Methods for Polyurea:
There are a number of application methods, but the most suitable ones include the following four
methods.

 High Pressure hot spray:

For high volume coating jobs, we use the high-pressure hot spray method. The formulator is kept at low
viscosity to produce a uniform coat at the particular temperature. The spray is designed so as to work on
high temperature and hot spraying. Two coats are applied to ensure safe coating, and waterproofing.

 Low Pressure cold spray:

Low pressure cold spray is used for small surface areas, where the formulator is still at low viscosity at
the ambient temperature for properly protected spraying.

 Warm spray coating:

In warm spray coating, low viscosity is maintained at a fluid mix below 60°C. This method is suitable for
medium spray coating job.

 Brush and Roller method:

If you are looking for a smaller volume, like interior of small pipes, the spraying may not be feasible.
Thus, in lower surface areas, we use the brush and roller method for waterproof coating by polyurea.

6. Polyurea vs. Epoxy and Polyurethane:

As compared to epoxy and polyurethane, polyurea is high level of moisture resistance, and resistance to
corrosion, abrasion, chemical, UV rays, and temperature. It is also more durable and has a lower curing
time (setting time). So, there is nothing to lose, with a number of advantages over polyurethane and
epoxy.

7. Aromatic Polyurea vs. Aliphatic polyurea:

Aromatic polyurea coatings are not UV resistant, thereby leading to colour changes and chalking. Use
aliphatic urea for aesthetic maintenance of the coating as aromatic polyurea is negatively impacted by
UV radiations.

There are a number of attributes of this unique invention, making it ideal for protective coating and
waterproofing in wide-array of industries. Scroll through this article and get all your polyurea insights
that are needed beforehand for a desirable coating experience.