Comprehensive Introduction: Epoxy and Polyurethane Floor Coatings—A Critical Evaluation for Modern Industrial Applications

Year : 2026 | Volume : 13 | Issue : 01 | Page : 14 23
    By

    Priti Badgujar,

  • Nilesh Prakash Badgujar,

  1. Student, Department of Chemical Technology, UPL University of Sustainable Technology, Ankleshwar, Gujrat, India
  2. Professor, Department of Chemical Technology, UPL University of Sustainable Technology, Ankleshwar, Gujrat, India

Abstract

Industrial flooring systems are essential for ensuring operational durability, safety, and longevity in demanding environments. Epoxy and polyurethane (PU) coatings represent two predominant technologies, each offering distinct mechanical, chemical, and aesthetic profiles tailored to specific performance requirements. Epoxy systems, formed through the crosslinking of bisphenol-A-based resins with amine hardeners, excel in high-strength, chemically aggressive settings due to their superior hardness, adhesion, and chemical inertness. In contrast, PU coatings, synthesized from polyisocyanates and polyols, provide enhanced flexibility, impact resistance, UV stability, and thermal adaptability, making them ideal for dynamic or exterior applications. This study conducts a systematic comparative analysis of both coating types, focusing on their chemical formulation, curing mechanisms, mechanical performance, and environmental resilience. Laboratory evaluations—including viscosity, pot life, adhesion, abrasion resistance, chemical exposure tests, and thermal stability—were conducted in accordance with ASTM standards. The results demonstrate that while epoxy coatings are optimal for static, high-load, and chemical-exposure environments such as warehouses and factories, PU systems are better suited for areas subject to movement, thermal fluctuation, or UV exposure, such as multi-storey car parks and food processing facilities. Furthermore, the study details practical methodologies for shade development, surface preparation, and application, providing a comprehensive guide for industrial implementation. The findings underscore the importance of selecting coating systems based on operational context, and suggest that hybrid epoxy-PU systems may offer synergistic benefits for environments requiring both chemical resistance and flexibility.

Keywords: Application methodology, ASTM testing, chemical resistance, coating formulation, epoxy flooring, industrial coatings, mechanical performance, polyurethane flooring

[This article belongs to Journal of Thin Films, Coating Science Technology & Application ]

How to cite this article:
Priti Badgujar, Nilesh Prakash Badgujar. Comprehensive Introduction: Epoxy and Polyurethane Floor Coatings—A Critical Evaluation for Modern Industrial Applications. Journal of Thin Films, Coating Science Technology & Application. 2026; 13(01):14-23.
How to cite this URL:
Priti Badgujar, Nilesh Prakash Badgujar. Comprehensive Introduction: Epoxy and Polyurethane Floor Coatings—A Critical Evaluation for Modern Industrial Applications. Journal of Thin Films, Coating Science Technology & Application. 2026; 13(01):14-23. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/jotcsta/article=2026/view=241604


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Regular Issue Subscription Review Article
Volume 13
Issue 01
Received 13/02/2026
Accepted 23/02/2026
Published 25/03/2026
Publication Time 40 Days
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