International.
A group of researchers developed paints from seaweed that are non-toxic and that become an alternative to solvent-based.
Thanks to funding from the European Union, researchers have created non-toxic paints from seaweed as an alternative to solvent-based paints, which are toxic to the environment.
The project is called Next1koat (Novel high performance, water-based "high solids" and bio-based industrial wood coating) and is funded by European funds. The project partners investigated chemical reactions and processes related to these compounds from algae, and checked their compatibility with other compounds.
The scientists involved in the project also investigated various methods of application, drying and curing using these compounds.
Next1koat coatings had the following properties: lower water content, shorter drying time and lower incidence of granulated textures. They also improved the wettability of the wood without the need for surfactants, reduced foaming, increased hardness and gave greater luster to the finish.
The entire range of 1K water-based coating applications includes outer and inner layering and finishing layers for most of the wood processed in the furniture market.
Next1koat will be produced by European SME coating manufacturers due to its affordable chemistry based on seaweed polymers, and has been designed for wood and furniture from small and medium-sized facilities. Next1koat will have the following advanced properties:
• Lower water content.
• Reduced drying time and lower grain production.
• Better wood wetting without the use of surfactants.
• Less foaming.
• Brighter final appearance.
• Increased hardness
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