a.b.e. Construction Chemicals has expanded its range of VIP Polyurea coatings to include systems for specific waterproofing applications, as well as a new concept featuring polyurea coatings factory-applied to insulation boards. Noel Abendroth, Manager: Polyurea Performance Coatings for a.b.e. Construction Chemicals – which is part of the Chryso Southern Africa Group – says there has been increasing local demand for VIP Polyurea coatings since a.b.e. last year secured an exclusive agreement with Voelkel Industrie Produkte of Germany for the local distribution of the VIP range of protective coatings and joint fillers.

a.b.e. had since then also secured several high-profile contracts for  the VIP Polyurea coating range based on its “revolutionary” benefits which include durability, superior protection, ease of application, rapid curing and turnaround times.

The two new versions of VIP Polyurea coatings now available from a.b.e. are:

• VIP Polyurea cold spray-applied, high and low pressure systems for specific waterproofing applications, offering elongation (flexibility) ranging from VIP Polyurea cold spray-applied, high and low pressure systems for specific waterproofing applications, offering elongation (flexibility) capacity ranging from 240% to 650%. Abendroth explains: “The more flexible product accommodates high movement of the particles of the membrane, and would therefore be softer and able to offer maximum impact resistance. However, if abrasion resistance is needed, a harder product - with lower elongation capacity - can be better.  That’s why a.b.e. selects individually-designed specifications per project, taking all the criteria into account.”
• The use of Polyurea coatings as insulation layers attached to special prefabricated, lightweight boards produced for a.b.e. by Rigifoam. The new, unique version of Rigifoam’s popular Lamdaboards was developed by a.b.e. and Rigifoam especially for the South African market and local conditions.

Abendroth says the Polyurea Lamdaboards are ideal for the roofing market and can be applied over existing roofing or as separate, independent roofing components. The thickness of the Lamdaboards’ insulation can be determined by specification and the product will be available in a standard size of 2m by 1m, but the dimensions can also be tailor-made if required. Polyurea Lamdaboards can be used over purlin, as vertical cladding, under screeds, as cavity or curtain walls, ceilings, and as ducting. The boards are moisture- and water-repellent, resist chemicals including solvents used in construction adhesives, offer exceptional dimensional stability, and have high compressive strength, as well as resistance to impact, punctures, and corrosion. They also reduce operational heating and cooling costs and consequently provide substantial energy cost-savings. Both a.b.e.’s Polyurea Lamdaboards and the new cold spray-applied waterproofing system are now available nationally.