Water Based Polyurethane Fumes

Polyurethane is a versatile polymer used in a variety of products such as foam plastics fibrous materials and adhesives.

Water based polyurethane fumes. You ll find that it s common to deal with eye and throat problems while being exposed to this material. These fumes could potentially irritate the eyes throat and lungs as well as cause allergic reactions for those with chemical sensitivities. Vapors and curing once the polyurethane finish has dried and cured it is generally considered to be safe but during the drying and curing process the finish releases potentially harmful chemicals into the air via evaporation a process called off gassing. Most water based finishes still contain some level of vocs however and all polyurethane products contain diisocyanates.

However you may find that water based polyurethane is the more durable option between the two products. Polyurethane s merits include resistance to tears load bearing capacities and resistance to weather. Although polyurethane gives natural wood floors a beautiful long lasting sheen it is also a toxic chemical and should be used with caution. But people often complain about its distinct strong smell.

However it can easily crack and peel when the wood is exposed to extreme temperature and moisture levels. When applying this type of polyurethane in a home it will not require a significant amount of ventilation as it dries quickly and cleans up with water and remains colorless. Water based polyurethane is less durable than oil based polyurethane but is usually preferred because it is odorless. It has been estimated that depending on the type of polyurethane used either water based or oil based the length of time that the toxic fumes of polyurethane will linger in the air will range.

Sources of polyurethane fumes often come from products used to treat wooden surfaces. Respiratory issues first polyurethane is a petrochemical resin that contains known respiratory toxins called isocyanates. Latex or water based paints contain water as the primary liquid although some other solvents may also be included. When left uncured polyurethane can cause asthma and other breathing problems.

Polyurethane is available in two types water and. As we discussed previously oil based polyurethane has a longer dry and cure time than water based polyurethane which makes it more hazardous in the environment for a longer period of time. Alkyd or oil based paints use solvents other than water such as organic. Compared to oil based polyurethane water based is more expensive.

It s common for those around polyurethane for long periods of time to begin having problems breathing properly.