Waterbased Coatings Defined

Waterbased coatings are made from resins and binders, the combination of those components are used to develop a coating formulation. Urethanes, acrylics, alkyds and epoxies are all examples of resins and binders used in typical coating formulations. Additionally, additives are used to lend application, performance and color (pigment) properties to a coating.

It is important to identify which type of coating is right for your application, since waterbased and solvent based coating perform differently under various end use conditions. Discussing your application with a coating professional will ensure you are making the right choice for your business.

Waterbased Coatings and the Environment

Waterbased coatings are generally used to provide a heavy-duty protective coating to a variety of surfaces. Well known for producing fewer odors and being more environmentally friendly, these aqueous coatings are often used in the flexible packaging, graphic arts and film industries.

Companies operating in small spaces with minimum ventilation turn to waterbased coating options to protect the health and safety of their employees, since solvent based coatings release chemical compounds into the air as they evaporate. Waterbased coatings also reduce the concentration of flammable materials that may build up in facilities with small footprints and sub-par air filtration capabilities. Waterbased coatings generally meet the OSHA approved confined space safety measures more easily than do solvent based coatings.

Waterbased Coatings and VOC’s

Environmental compliance is another concern for companies weighing aqueous vs. solvent based coating options. Many solvents evaporate into volatile organic compounds, or VOC’s. National, state and local governments often regulate VOC’s by limiting how much businesses are allowed to emit in a given length of time. The US EPA sets national rules for VOCs and some states issue further emission restrictions.

Waterbased coatings may contain what is known as a co-solvent, these are solvents that are present in a lower concentration to aid in the performance of the coating formulation. However, even with the co-solvents present, waterbased coatings most often have zero, or very little VOC’s, making it easier for companies to meet the national and state emission regulations, spend less on environmental compliance advising and avoiding costly fines for exceeding VOC quotas.

For more information about custom waterbased coatings, contact Roymal, Inc. at roymal@roymalinc.com or by phone at (603) 863-2410.