Epoxy vs. Polyurethane: Which is Right for Your Australian Facility?

Comparing Epoxy and Polyurethane for Australian Industrial Settings

• Chemical Resistance: Epoxy floors generally offer superior resistance to alkalis, making them preferred for Australian manufacturing facilities using caustic cleaning agents. Polyurethane systems provide better protection against acids and organic compounds, suitable for food and beverage production common throughout Australia's agricultural regions.
• Temperature Performance: In facilities experiencing extreme temperature variations (like cold storage in Sydney's food distribution centers or hot processing areas in Queensland's sugar mills), polyurethane's superior thermal shock resistance makes it the preferred choice. Epoxy performs exceptionally well in controlled temperature environments.
• Impact and Abrasion: Polyurethane provides greater flexibility and impact absorption – ideal for Western Sydney warehouses with heavy forklift traffic or manufacturing facilities with dropped tool hazards. Epoxy offers superior compressive strength preferred for heavy equipment areas in mining support facilities.
• Moisture Tolerance During Installation: Australia's varied climate creates installation challenges. Polyurethane's higher moisture tolerance during application makes it suitable for coastal facilities, while epoxy typically requires stricter humidity and moisture control during installation.
• UV Stability for Outdoor Areas: For partially covered or outdoor industrial areas exposed to Australia's intense sunlight, aliphatic polyurethane provides superior UV resistance against yellowing and degradation, while standard epoxy may require additional UV-resistant topcoats.