Zero-VOC Waterborne Polyurethane Topcoat
Abstract
Organic topcoats are the primary source of barrier-type protection against environmental degradation for Navy aircraft. In addition, these materials provide passive countermeasures against many enemy threats. Unlike other DoD applications, Naval aviation topcoats must provide superior protection with a thin barrier as to minimize weight for proper payload or operations. These coatings contain high volatile organic compound (VOC) contents; VOCs are released during painting operations as hazardous air pollutants (HAPs). This new topcoat incorporates resins based on novel polymer chemistries into its formulation. These resins are water-dispersible; no organic solvents are necessary for viscosity reduction and subsequent spray application. Successful implementation of this material would result in the elimination of VOC emissions during the topcoating process. Laboratory results indicate that coatings formulated with this novel technology are feasible and these systems meet or exceed the majority of specification requirements and field demonstrations are in progress. The alternative to low/no VOC materials is the implementation of expensive emission control equipment on facilities where painting operations are performed. If no actions are taken or delayed, the risk of falling out of compliance with federal, state, and location regulations becomes high. Noncompliance will result in fines, forced implementation of pollution-abatement equipment, and aircraft down time.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1999
- Accession Number
- ADA375756
Entities
People
- Kevin Kovaleski
Organizations
- Naval Air Warfare Center