Environmentally Friendly Liquid Metals
Being environmentally friendly is a vital part of our vision. The coating systems we use consists of powdered metals and one of two binders, either solvent-based or water-based.
Liquid metals are a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to solid cast foundry pieces as well as an alternative to metallic paints, coatings and finishes.
When compared with the environmental issues of foundries, plating, coatings or other paint materials, liquid metals are a compelling alternative. Vapour exposure to the environment and to the applicator is limited. Even the solvent binder system contains less than half the VOC’s of many water-based coatings which, in addition, may require multiple coats to achieve good coverage. In most cases only one coat of liquid metal is required.
The predominant component we use is real metal in a powdered form and where possible, this is supplied from recycled metals. When it has been blended with a binder and is in its liquid state, the amount of vapour is limited. This is because the material is between 50 and 90% solid or non-volatile material depending on the application.
Only very small quantities of metal are needed to achieve a very durable protective coating with all the appearance and many of the performance benefits of solid metal. The quantity of materials used is calculated on the exact area to be covered therefore reducing possible waste. This use of small quantities of material contributes to the conservation of the planet’s resources.
We use a quick, efficient cold application process and therefore produce no burn pollution. Foundries burn resources. Tremendous heat must be generated to keep metal in a molten state and whether the heat is generated using coal, oil, gas or other combustibles, non-renewable resources are consumed. Additionally, there is pollution generated from the burn and out-gassing of the pollutants from the molten metals.
When properly applied, liquid metals will not delaminate, crack, chip or peel and have an expected life, if properly cared for, of at least 20 years in exterior applications without breaking down under UV light. Significantly, the coatings also have a much lower leach rate than their solid or sheet-metal equivalent and can be safely used where run-off may be a concern. In addition, the solvent binder is fully catalysed and therefore inert.
The product is non-electrically conductive, anti-corrosive and does not break down or contaminate. Because the metal particles are heavier than the resin they have been added to, and because an HVLP spray application is used, fewer particles are allowed to escape into the atmosphere, therefore reducing airborne emissions.
We also work to actively reclaim metal powders during the clean-up process and any cleaning fluids are also sent for recycling.