By David Reed, UT EditorNürnberg, Germany-Huntsman Polyurethanes, a business division of Huntsman Corp focused on the manufacture and development of materials based on MDI (methylene diphenyl diisocyanate), says it has created MDI-based materials which improve the performance of one-component, liquid membrane coatings for the construction industry. Huntsman claims the moisture-curing technology is the first of its kind to meet market demand for an alternative to systems based on TDI (toluene diisocyanate). The formulation has been designed specifically for use in weatherproofing membranes for roofing, in total bridge-decking systems and other outdoor applications, according to an announcement made during the 26-28 April European Coatings Show in Nürnberg.The highly flexible coating-with crack-bridging properties in excess of 400 percent elongation-can be applied in 2-3mm layers using simple pouring, brushing or spraying techniques, Huntsman says, adding that benefits include superior wear performance and improved durability. The systems also offer longer open and faster cure times than TDI-based systems, the firm claims."Huntsman's MDI technology solution was developed in response to a strategic analysis of the construction market's coating requirements. Customers clearly highlighted that they were seeking an alternative for existing TDI polyurethane solutions for some specific construction applications," said Marc Broekaert, application and product development manager of coatings, at Huntsman Polyurethanes' Adhesives, Coatings and Elastomers (ACE) division."
