What is Epoxy Coating?

Epoxy coating is a layer of resins with reactive CH(O)CH2 function, known as oxirane ring or epoxide. The oxygen atom is in an arrangement of a three-membered cyclic ring to position it outside a carbon backbone. Repeated subunits form big chains or a polymer, which is a chemical substance. Epoxy resins are epoxides and highly reactive molecules that set or cure through chemical reactions that occur when heated to high temperatures or mixed with other materials. Mixing an epoxy coating with other chemicals hardens it, creating a smooth, thoroughly level surface without roughness. Epoxy coatings like the kind Epoxy Floor Coating Winnipeg uses, create a protective, durable surface, preventing the degradation of carbon steel tanks when kept outside. Also, an epoxy coating makes the surface resistant to turbulence, abrasion, severe temperatures, and harsh chemicals. Besides being durable, epoxy coatings are resistant to various corrosive substances.

Epoxy Coating Types

​Knowing the available varieties is crucial when choosing an epoxy coating for your application. Here are the primary types of epoxy coating.

Coal Tar Epoxies

​The incorporation of coal tar creates a rudimentary waterproofing layer. Coal tar’s hydrophobic hydrocarbon content forms a robust protection against moisture. Nevertheless, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are a health hazard due to their mutagenicity, nephrotoxicity, and carcinogenicity. Hence, developed countries have banned them.

Fusion-Bonded Epoxies

Fusion-bonded epoxies are produced by melting epoxy resin with a hardener in the fluid bed. The reaction between the hardener and the resin can’t happen at ambient temperatures. Nevertheless, the process creates a thermoset coating that doesn’t lose its form after cooling, even at high temperatures. This epoxy coating can bond to metallic surfaces at a high temperature to create a fantastic protective layer.

Epoxy Powder Coatings

​Experts apply this epoxy coating as a dry powder and then cure it with heat. It can be in the form of pure epoxy powder or epoxy hybrid. Also, it can be an epoxy-polyester coating, which provides better performance. Epoxy powder coating enhances a metal’s corrosion resistance.

Novolac Epoxy

Novolac epoxies are two-component, 100% solids. They form a highly chemical-resistant coating for vertical and horizontal applications. Novolac epoxies are ideal for concrete and steel.

Uses of Epoxy Coatings

Epoxy coatings have numerous uses in residential, commercial, and industrial properties. Here are some of them.

Protection Against Corrosion

Epoxy coatings protect concrete and steel surfaces from chemical corrosion. Therefore, they are prevalent in heavy industry where chemicals like organic acids are common.

Protection Against Harsh Environments

Epoxy coatings like Novolac epoxies protect surfaces from harsh environments. For instance, you can find them on the linings of the tanks for storing aggressive or corrosive chemicals.

Underwater and Marine Applications

Epoxy powder coatings are prevalent in boat trailers, propellers, and marine equipment. Also, coal tar epoxies are typical in sewers, ship hulls, and marine docks.
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Other applications include protecting floors and concentrate, pipe fittings, and in salty water environments. Also, epoxy coatings help in priming automobile chassis and some electronics to protect some components. Domestic use of epoxy coatings includes flooring in basements, patios, and garages. Most homeowners install epoxy coatings due to their durability, weather, and chemical resistance. Also, they create smooth surfaces which are easy to maintain and clean.