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AUS-V™ Chemistry

AUS-V™ Chemistry from a Scientists Perspective

AUS-V™ Urethane Protective Top Coat: Simplified Explanation
Product Overview
AUS-V™ is a high-performance, clear, two-component (Part A and Part B) waterborne aliphatic polyurethane coating from Elite Crete Systems. It's designed as a protective top coat for interior concrete floors, resinous coating systems; epoxy-urethane-urea-aspartic, polished concrete and select polymer-modified cementitious overlays. Aliphatic indicates it's UV-stable chemistry and will not amber/ yellow over time, unlike aromatic urethanes. It's extremely low-VOC (<25 g/L & compliant), 75% actual solids (void of filler), odorless, non-flammable, and compliant for food-contact areas (USDA/FDA/CFIA). Available in gloss or satin/matte finishes, with optional additives for extra abrasion resistance or pigmentation.

How It Works: Chemistry and Reactions
This is a 2K (two-component) waterborne polyurethane (WB PU) system. When mixed in equal volumes (as supplied in various sized kits), the components react to form a durable polymer film. The formulation features a high NCO:OH ratio (>3:1), meaning excess isocyanate (NCO from Part B) relative to hydroxyl (OH from polyol in Part A). This drives enhanced cross-linking performance.

Two main reactions occur upon mixing and application (especially on moist concrete substrates):

  1. Urethane Formation (Primary Reaction): Isocyanate groups (-NCO) react with hydroxyl groups (-OH) to create stable urethane linkages, building the main polymer network:

    R-NCO+R-NH-COO-R'

  2. Polyurea Formation (Secondary Reaction with Water): Excess NCO reacts with water from the mix or substrate.

    • Forms unstable carbamic acid: R-NC)+H₂O->R-NH-COOH
    • Decomposes to amine and CO₂: R-NH-CCOH->R-NH-CO-NH-R'
    • Amine reacts with another NCO: R-NH₂+R'-NCO->R-NH-CO-NH-R' (creating strong urea linkages)
The high NCO:OH ratio ensures all OH groups react, while excess NCO leverages water for extra urea bonds, increasing cross-link density and hydrogen bonding. This results in a denser, tougher film. Pot life is ~30 minutes; it applies milky but dries clear. Full cure takes 72 hours at room temperature (40–90°F), with light traffic after 24 hours.

Performance Benefits
The high NCO:OH ratio and aliphatic chemistry provide superior properties over standard 1:1 urethanes:

  • Hardness and Abrasion Resistance: Denser network yields exceptional wear resistance (16 mg loss in Taber abrader test); optional Satin AGG additive boosts this further.
  • Chemical and Stain Resistance: Resists solvents, fuels (e.g., Skydrol, Jet Fuel), and stains; no water spotting.
  • Mechanical Strength: High tensile/compressive strength, impact resistance (150 in-lb), and flexibility (passes 1/8" mandrel bend).
  • Adhesion and Durability: Strong bonding to concrete/epoxy (450 psi); UV-stable for long-term clarity.
  • Application Forgiveness: Excess NCO tolerates minor mixing errors; coverage: 300–500 sq ft/gallon (2–4 mils wet film).
  • Environmental/Safety: Low VOC, no odor, safe for indoor use; pigmented options for colored systems.

Trade-offs and Considerations
  • Cure Time: Slower full hardness development (up to 7 days) due to excess NCO acting as a temporary plasticizer.
  • Cost: Higher material expense from premium formulation.
Limitations: For interior use only; not for exterior (unless specific circumstances), continuous water immersion, or freezing conditions. Surface must be dry and clean; test for moisture vapor emission. Requires PPE during application to avoid skin/eye contact. Shelf life: 1 year unopened, stored at 65–85°F. Improper mixing can cause uneven curing or discoloration.

Contact us at: +1-219-465-7671 or sales@elitecrete.com for any assistance.