Bayer MaterialScience LLC Study Indicates Waterborne Polyurethane Coatings Are Effective as Corrosion-Resistant Coating Resins

Oak Bridge, IL, September 14, 2011 --(PR.com)-- Use of waterborne polyurethane technology is increasing in such areas as construction coatings, automotive coatings, protective coatings and industrial metal coatings. But, can this technology really stand up to these demanding applications? Bayer MaterialScience LLC’s Peter Schmitt, senior technology manager in the Coatings, Adhesives and Specialties group, examined that question in a recent study.

Attendees of Coatings Trends & Technologies 2011 had the opportunity to listen first-hand as Schmitt discusses the latest findings about the use of waterborne polyurethane technology in corrosion-resistant coatings. On Tuesday, September 13, Schmitt presented “Waterborne Polyurethane Technology in Corrosion-Resistant Coatings Resins” at 3:20 p.m. during Track 2: Architectural. The presentation is based on a paper co-authored by Margaret Kendi, associate research scientist, Bayer MaterialScience LLC.

Schmitt began his presentation by examining the formulation of waterborne polyurethane technology, as well as the currently available commercial competitive technologies. He discussed the necessary qualities successful corrosion-resistant coatings must possess. Schmitt explained that formulators desire characteristics like corrosion protection for the substrate, adhesion to various types of metal substrates, ease of application and exterior durability when choosing a direct-to-metal coating.

Next, Schmitt presented the advantages of choosing one-component, waterborne coatings for direct-to-metal applications, citing low volatile organic compound (VOC) levels, low odor, ease of field repair and low energy requirements. He compared waterborne polyurethane and waterborne polyacrylate direct-to-metal resins and examine the performance of those resins, as well as blends of waterborne polyurethane and polyacrylate resins, in applications requiring corrosion-resistance.

Straight formula resins and blends were subjected to a variety of tests, including adhesion tests after one day and after seven days, salt fog corrosion-resistance tests and Cleveland condenser humidity-resistance testing. Results of the testing indicated that both the waterborne polyurethane and waterborne polyacrylate resins display excellent humidity resistance. Furthermore, waterborne polyurethane coatings were found to exhibit superior corrosion resistance with a single coat, making them an ideal choice for formulators looking for corrosion-resistant, direct-to-metal coatings.

“Paints based on one-component waterborne polyurethanes can successfully protect metal surfaces and keep them looking good for an extended period of time,” Schmitt concluded.

Coatings Trends & Technologies will be held September 13-14, 2011, at the Double Tree Hotel Chicago in Oak Brook, Illinois. The conference will be sponsored by Paint & Coatings Industry Magazine and the Chicago Society for Coatings Technology.

About Bayer MaterialScience LLC:
Bayer MaterialScience LLC is one of the leading producers of polymers and high-performance plastics in North America and is part of the global Bayer MaterialScience business with approximately 14,700 employees at 30 production sites around the world and 2010 sales of 10.2 billion euros. The company manufactures high-tech polymer materials and develops innovative solutions for products used in many areas of daily life. The main segments served are the automotive, electrical and electronics, construction, medical, and sports and leisure industries. Sustainability is central to Bayer MaterialScience LLC’s business and is based around the key areas of innovation, product stewardship, excellence in corporate management, social responsibility and respect for the environment.

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