PAINTS AND COATINGS OF THE NEXT GENERATION
Responsible use of resources and continuous improvement of production processes are an important part of how we develop our paints and coatings. Through innovation and the development of new formulations, we continuously enhance the performance of our products. At the same time, we create new solutions that reflect our commitments to quality and innovation. Our portfolio includes water-based products as well as selected products containing bio-based raw materials. As the properties and intended applications of these products may vary, we recommend reviewing the information provided in the technical documentation and on the product packaging before making your selection.
Why do we particularly recommend water-based coatings?
Organic solvents evaporate during the drying process of conventional coatings, making adequate ventilation important when these products are used indoors. For this reason, water-based coatings are often a practical choice for larger interior surfaces. Unlike solvent-based coatings, they use water as their primary thinning medium.
The advantages of water-based coatings:
- low odour during drying;
- when used indoors, the need for additional ventilation is generally lower than with solvent-based coatings;
- quick drying enables the application of several coats in less time;
- they have a less pronounced odour than solvent-based coatings;
- thinning is not required – should it be required, tap water can be used as a thinner;
- fresh stains can be removed with water;
- they are characterized by good colour stability and reduced yellowing over time.
Suitable for toys
When talking about painting objects which children come into contact with – toys, cribs, etc. – the correct choice of paint is all the more important. Our youngest ones are especially sensitive, so we dedicated particular attention to four HELIOS TESSAROL products developed to meet the requirements of the SIST EN 71-3 standard for coatings used on children's toys. Their compliance is confirmed with a certificate from the Health Protection Institute Maribor, Institute for Environmental Protection (CERTIFICATE).
BIO-BASED PAINTS AND COATINGS
The paints and coatings industry is continually evolving. Among developments in raw materials and formulations, bio-based materials are becoming increasingly common.
Bio-based paints are sourced from renewable materials such as plants, oils, and natural minerals. This distinguishes them from traditional paints that rely on fossil-based raw materials.
Different Types of Bio-Based Materials in Paints and Coatings
Bio-based raw materials in paints and coatings fall into three primary categories:
- Bio-based building blocks: These include raw materials sourced from fatty acids, vegetable oils, or other biomaterial-derived monomers like succinic acid.
- Bio-based solvents: Derived from renewable sources such as corn, sugar, and beet, these solvents offer an alternative to petrochemical ones.
- Bio-based additives: Though used in smaller amounts, these additives play a vital role in enhancing the eco-credentials of paints and coatings.
Benefits of Renewable Resources
Using renewable raw materials instead of fossil fuel-based ones offers several benefits; Renewable resources, such as plants, biomass, algae, and forestry products, can replenish over time, unlike fossil-based resources. Fossil fuel extraction and processing emit greenhouse gases, contributing to global warming. Renewable materials are the subject of extensive research and development aimed at improving resource efficiency and reducing dependence on fossil-based raw materials.
Ensuring Bio-Based Authenticity: Carbon Dating Methods
The bio-based carbon content in materials can be confirmed using the radiocarbon dating technique, commonly known as the Carbon-14 method. This method helps differentiate between components derived from living organisms and those derived from fossil sources. Carbon-14 naturally exists in small amounts within living organisms. It gradually decays until it becomes undetectable, allowing us to differentiate between bio-based materials and those derived from fossils. Standards like EN 16640 and ASTM D-6866 ensure the precision of these analyses, validating the bio-based content in products.
Shaping the Future Through Innovation
The use of bio-based materials represents an important trend in the paints and coatings industry. Ongoing research into new raw materials and formulations continues to open up new possibilities for future generations of paints and coatings.