EARLY GENERATION EPOXIES-
MEDICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS?

A number of commercially available epoxy coatings contain very dangerous chemicals in their formulation. Two of these chemicals are Methylenedianiline (MDA) and Nonyl-Phenol . Medical concerns over MDA and Nonyl-Phenol are that they are liver toxin, carcinogenic and in the case of Nonyl-Phenol, disrupt and mimic the endocrine system (in human and animal life).

SO WHY ARE THEY THERE?
The one, over riding factor is cost. Nonyl-Phenol is used to bulk the end product by sometimes over 50% and at 50 pence per pound, profits increase, whilst the user and the environment are forced to pay the ultimate price to their health and surroundings.

A recent report on MDA by OSHA felt strongly enough to publish parts 19,10 and 19,26 of their CFR report which has classified MDA as a dangerous substance and carcinogen. This has led to new working levels and practices of a time weighted average which equal 10 parts per billion over an eight hour day. In addition to these limits the regulation includes requirements such as medical surveillance, exposure monitoring, hygiene facilities and many more.

THESE CHEMICALS DO NOT NEED TO BE THERE
Not only are they of detriment to the user and the environment, the quality of the epoxy also suffers a high price. By adding M.D.A and/or Nonyl-Phenol the polymer chains are shortened making the epoxy more brittle. The chain formation is also affected, rather than forming a uniform pattern they tend to slide over each other making the epoxy less flexible. Standard solvent based epoxies can expect 2-3% elongation, however by using a 100% solids epoxy system such as the IES Primary range an elongation of 10-12% is achieved. If elongation is required beyond these limitations our flexibilised systems will provide up to 25% to allow for movement and vibration , making them more surface tolerant. Another advantage is due to the IES range's lack of solvents, your fully cured film thickness is equal to that applied giving the design team a correct weight and thickness ratio from the outset.

The IES BIO range of 100% solids, 100% safe epoxies do not contain any alien bulking agents and as a testament to them, they can be applied alongside other industries even food processing without any harmful vapour transmission.

So next time you use an epoxy-be sure to check your MSDS or call IES........