What are “Thermoplastics”?

• Usually named “plastic”, thermoplastics melt when heated up and solidify when cooled down;
• Some common plastics: polyethylene, polypropylene, nylon, PVC, etc…;
• Mainly used in order to shape objects like bottles, plugs and other components, or extrusion made in packaging, bags, hoses and texture;
• Several features, such as: flexibility, stiffness, high temperature and chemical resistance, hardness and electrical insulation, etc.

What are “Traditional Paints”?

They primarily consist in “thermoset plastics” such as polyester, epoxy, polyurethane and acrylic.

They are different from thermoplastics since they react forming a 3D molecular bond which will not melt if heated up.

This technology is commonly used in both solvent-based paints and traditional powder coatings.

Why use Thermoplastic Powders?

Thermoplastic Powders can lead to several benefits depending on the powder type:

• Barrier function to vapors, liquids and chemical resistances.
• Electrical insulation and anticorrosion;
• Flexibility – extension from 50% to 1000% with no cracking or flaking;
• Thicker coating, offering:
  • Welds and edges coverage;
  • “Grip” and “Heat”;
  • Resistant to impact;
  • Application through Dipping, Flame Spraying and Flock Spraying methods.
  • Electrostatic Spray Application method;
  • Low toxicity.

Which Thermoplastics are used in powder coatings?

Functionalized polyolefin alloys, such as:

• PHC-A and PHC-AH for metals, wood, concrete, etc…;
• PPA 665 and 665XL for fire extinguishers inner coating;
• Oil & Gas Powders;
• Polyfusion for concrete substrates.