Eco-friendly epoxy resins do not emit harmful chemicals like traditional epoxies. These non-toxic resins do not contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and are formulated from raw materials that are safe for humans, pets, and plants.
Epoxy is temperature-sensitive and must be used in stable temperatures for the epoxy to cure properly. This can cause problems on job sites where crews have to stop working during the 72-hour off-gassing period.
Biodegradable
Typically, epoxy resin is not biodegradable, so when used to create projects or floors, the leftover material must be removed and sent for professional disposal or a recycling center that accepts resin waste. Fortunately, some eco-friendly options are both recyclable and biodegradable.
These products use a mixture of resin and hardener to create the finished product, but instead of using traditional petroleum-based materials, they use plant-based oils. These oils are sourced from renewable plants and are less environmentally harmful than oil-based products.
The resulting resins also produce fewer VOCs than traditional epoxy, making them better for the environment and safer for your health. Unlike polyester resins, which release volatile organic compounds that can cause skin and respiratory problems, these epoxy resins do not release such chemicals. Likewise, they do not release isocyanates, which are known to cause lung and respiratory irritation. These resins are safe for home use and do not pose any health risks.
Epoxy Flooring in Cincinnati Ohio, is a resinous flooring commonly used in commercial and industrial settings. It is known for its durability, strength, and resistance to chemicals and abrasion. You can also use epoxy flooring in your home for areas that need extra protection, such as garages, basements, and laundry rooms.
Low VOC Emissions
While epoxy resins have many eco-friendly attributes, it is essential to note that they are not without some environmental concerns. Creating the raw materials that go into epoxy requires energy-intensive processes that utilize petroleum resources and, in some cases, toxic chemicals. Additionally, uncured epoxy can be dangerous to humans and animals if exposed.
As a result, manufacturers are working hard to create low-VOC epoxy products. Some even have zero VOC options.
Volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, harm human health and the environment. They contribute to ground-level ozone (which can cause respiratory problems) and are known carcinogens. They also contribute to climate change by acting as greenhouse gases. Industrial epoxies have very low VOC emissions, and these readings are typically as low as 100 g/l. VOC levels are lower still when using low or no VOC diluents with the resin. The diluents can also be recycled and reused on future projects rather than disposed of as hazardous waste.
Recyclable
Epoxy is very versatile and can be used for a variety of applications. However, its reliance on petroleum-based raw materials could lead to environmental concerns in the future as petroleum reserves deplete. The epoxy industry is working to develop alternatives that use renewable resources.
Epoxies are made from many chemicals, including polyamines, phenolic compounds, and isocyanates. These chemicals are mixed with curing diluents to create the final resin and hardener products. When these chemicals are misused, they can release toxins into the air. This has been linked to sick-building syndrome and other health issues in sensitive individuals.
Choose an eco-friendly epoxy formulated with 100% epoxy solids to minimize these concerns. This will ensure the epoxy and hardener completely polymerize without water evaporating and chemicals into the air. Also, choose a product that is free from VOC emissions. However, don’t be fooled by marketing claims about “plant-based additives” – no proof exists that this improves the results.
Non-Toxic
Traditional epoxy resins contain chemicals that harm human health and the environment. These chemicals contribute to air pollution and exacerbate the greenhouse effect. However, sustainable alternatives that reduce these adverse effects are available. These alternatives are made from renewable and biodegradable materials, emitting fewer VOCs during manufacturing.
These green epoxy options are also safe to use. They don’t contain solvents that may evaporate and release harmful chemicals into the air during application. Furthermore, they are easy to clean up with soap and water.
When complete design control is necessary, epoxy can create unique and durable surfaces that will withstand years of use. For example, a photo gray epoxy was used as a flooring solution for their photography studio and AV soundstage so that the floor would seamlessly transition from the floor to the coved walls. This allowed for complete flexibility in their productions. Additionally, the epoxy could withstand forklifts moving props between takes and could easily be cleaned with a mop or rag between shots.
