Bayer Takes Off with New Ways to Reduce Dry-to-Fly Time

New Orleans, LA, February 17, 2012 --(PR.com)-- Time is money. Current coatings used on aircraft require 72 hours to cure before the plane can be moved outside the hangar. Therefore, there is a desire in the industry to increase productivity and efficiency by decreasing the “dry-to-fly” time. Bayer MaterialScience LLC scientists have determined that UV-curable polyurethane dispersions (PUDs) meet the flexibility, chemical-resistance and weatherability specifications that result in decreased curing time and increased productivity.

The scientists formulated and tested UV-curable PUDs as possible alternatives to currently used aerospace topcoats. Aerospace coatings must be able to resist a wide variety of chemicals (jet fuel, motor oil and hydraulic fluid) while maintaining flexibility to prevent cracking over a wide temperature range. In addition to chemical resistance, coatings that meet industry needs also require a balance of flexibility, weatherability and water resistance.

Bayer’s Todd Williams, senior associate scientist, discussed these findings when he presented “UV-Curable Polyurethane Dispersions for Aerospace Topcoat Applications” as part of the UV track at 9:00, Thursday, February 16, in Preservation Hall A during the Waterborne Symposium 2012. Williams’ presentation is based on a paper of the same name co-authored by Charles Gambino, R&D specialist; and Michael Dvorchak, strategic technology manager of UV-cure oligomers & PUDs and government programs, all of Bayer MaterialScience LLC; and former Bayer employee, Katrina Callen.

Williams reviewed the performance of formulations based on UV-curable PUDs with respect to their physical, chemical and aesthetic requirements. According to Williams, “Based on our research, we determined that UV-PUD binders are a promising technology for the aerospace coatings market.”

About Bayer MaterialScience LLC:
Bayer MaterialScience LLC is one of the leading producers of polymers and high-performance plastics in North America and is part of the global Bayer MaterialScience business with approximately 14,700 employees at 30 production sites around the world and 2010 sales of 10.2 billion euros. The company manufactures high-tech polymer materials and develops innovative solutions for products used in many areas of daily life. The main segments served are the automotive, electrical and electronics, construction, medical, and sports and leisure industries. Sustainability is central to Bayer MaterialScience LLC’s business and is based around the key areas of innovation, product stewardship, excellence in corporate management, social responsibility and respect for the environment.

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