Induron Protective Coatings launches thick film novalac epoxy

Industrial coatings company Induron Protective Coatings recently introduced a new thick-film ceramic-filled novolac epoxy suitable for use in concrete and carbon steel surface treatment plant conditions.

Novasafe can provide the corrosion and erosion protection treatment plant operators may need when repairing structures, according to the company.

"In the current regulatory and financial environment, water utilities are increasingly concerned about the condition of their currently operating treatment plant assets, including aeration basins, clarifiers, grit basins, chlorine contact basins, etc. With all of these assets there is an increasing need for field installable lining and corrosion solutions." said William Seawell, director of technical services at Induron.

"During a period of increased water intrusion, extreme chemical intrusion, and increasing regulatory pressures, treatment plants have an increased need for immersion coating maintenance."

Induron said it has previously used thick film ceramic epoxy resin technology to protect the inside of buried geographite iron pipes, inside water tanks and inside water treatment plants.

The new Novasafe coating can reportedly be applied in one less layer than traditional epoxies and has a thinner film thickness than polyurethane or polyurea. This is achieved through the paint’s resin and filler packages.

"Novasafe makes this possible by lowering the barrier to entry through long pot life, single-leg application and extended service life with relatively thin films," said Seawell. "Novasafe is clearly not a 250 million, multi-application rapid cure product optimized for shop throughput. It does everything these products do with 80 mil film and is very easy to apply in the field given its formula."

The coating is reported to be continuously exposed to the entire pH range, various strong inorganic acids, all strong bases, high concentrations of hydrogen sulfide commonly encountered in wastewater inlet channels and digesters, and oxidation commonly encountered when treating wastewater.

Induron adds that ceramic liners, specifically Novasafe, can provide a level of corrosion and erosion protection when immersed in water, whether on concrete or steel. Novasafe is reported to be a strong lining material that provides efficiency and monetary benefits to applicators and asset owners. The coating is reportedly easier to apply and has a stronger dry film than competitors.

"While Novasafe is not suitable for every service, within every treatment plant specification or treatment plant Novasafe can help rehabilitate immersed structures to provide continued long-term protection while reducing the maintenance burden while delivering cost savings.” said Davies Hood, President of Induron.