acrylic vs polyurethane

Some of the varieties of waterproof varnishes are acrylic and polyurethane water-based varnishes.

Acrylic is a transparent material with excellent physical and technical characteristics:

  • good resistance to mechanical impacts;
  • temperature resistant;
  • the coating film has good density with low specific gravity;
  • high resistance to ultraviolet radiation.

As a substance, acrylic is used in the manufacture of acrylic varnishes and paints. The acrylic dispersion contains microparticles of plastic that dissolve in water. After applying the solution to the surface and drying, a dense and strong protective film is formed. The addition of color pigment provides excellent decorative properties.

Mexico is considered the birthplace of acrylic. After its discovery in 1950, it was immediately used in America and Europe.

Акриловый лак

Acrylic varnish

Acrylic varnish is a milky-white liquid, which, depending on the dispersion, has a homogeneous mass of varying density. The main component is a high-quality aqueous dispersion consisting of acrylic resins, with an admixture of various additives.

Acrylic varnish has good protective and decorative properties. It is often used both to improve the decorative finish and to protect the surface being treated. It is widely used in the processing of various wooden products.

Advantages of water-based acrylic varnish

One of the important properties is fast drying, eco-friendliness, elasticity, resistance to moisture. When used, a smooth, elastic, transparent dense film is formed (glossy, semi-matte, matte). They emphasize the texture of wood well, tolerate temperature changes, and are suitable for outdoor work* (see varnish for outdoor wood work).

wood varnishes

  • Eco-friendly;
  • Odorless;
  • Temperature-resistant;
  • Weather-resistant;
  • Good decorative qualities;
  • Not susceptible to combustion.

Characteristics and features

  • During the polymerization process, a strong, transparent elastic film is formed;
  • Moderately resistant to physical and mechanical impacts;
  • After drying, it is resistant to the aquatic environment, acquires waterproof water-repellent properties;
  • Resistant to ultraviolet radiation, does not turn yellow;
  • High adhesion to various surfaces;
  • Dries quickly;
  • Compatible with water-soluble paints;
  • Applied in various ways.

Polyurethane varnish

Polyurethane varnishes, in comparison with acrylic ones, have:

  1. higher film strength,
  2. better abrasive resistance,
  3. They are also more resistant to chemically active substances and solutions, including sea water, cosmetics, fat, alcohol, wine, coffee and other aggressive environments.
Wear-resistant varnishes for wood

Polyurethane films have excellent water resistance, good dielectric capacity, are easy to clean from dirt, and interact well with wooden, concrete, metal surfaces. However, on wood they tolerate temperature changes worse than acrylic varnishes. Therefore, polyurethane varnishes are more often used for interior work and in places subject to intensive use and washing.

Water-based polyurethane varnishes are used to cover work surfaces: parquet boards, laminate, wooden countertops, furniture and bar counters in cafes and bars. After applying the varnish, the surface has excellent water resistance, good resistance to various oils, acidic and slightly alkaline solutions. They are characterized by ease of maintenance. Compared to alkyd varnishes, water-based polyurethane varnishes have virtually no odor, are more environmentally friendly, harmless to people in the room, and dry quickly.

Drying time of polyurethane varnishes on a wooden surface

first stage: after 2-3 hours does not stick to the touch; after 6-8 hours you can walk on the treated surface; and after 2-3 days you can arrange furniture.

They have excellent adhesion - they are applied in an even layer to the wooden surface, without delaminating over time.

The strength and wear resistance of the film depends on the correct application of the varnish to the surface being treated. It is advisable to apply 2-3 layers, with intermediate sanding. The frequency of application of layers is 2-3 hours.

The optimal temperature range for applying water-based varnish is 18-25 degrees. At temperatures below 12 and above 30 degrees, the adhesion index deteriorates. The optimal humidity for work is about 60%.

It is perfectly tinted in various colors. Emphasizes the texture of the wood.

Panel varnish for wood Joncryl

Joncryl panel varnish
Acrylic water-based varnish for interior woodwork. Varnish for universal use. Suitable for covering wooden trim and decor, used as a protective coating for furniture, furniture components, wood products, and wooden interior parts. Glossy, semi-matte.

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Polyurethane parquet varnish ultra-resistant Joncryl

Parquet varnish ultra
Water-based polyurethane varnish for interior work. It is used as a high-quality protective coating for floors (parquet, laminate, veneer, linoleum and other PVC coatings).
Contains aliphatic alkyd-urethane resin. It is purified and dearomatic white spirit is used in its production. Gloss level - glossy, semi-matte.

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