What is a co-reaction cure by polymerization primarily associated with?

Co-reaction cure by polymerization is primarily associated with epoxies, urethanes, and polyureas because these materials undergo a chemical reaction where two or more components are combined to create a cross-linked polymer network. This process involves the curing agents and resin components interacting chemically, which enhances the performance properties of the coating, such as adhesion, chemical resistance, and durability.

In the case of epoxies, the resin and hardener (curing agent) react to form a thermosetting polymer. Urethanes similarly rely on the reaction between polyols and isocyanates, while polyureas are formed through the reaction of amines with isocyanates. The resulting structure is a strong, resilient finish that is well-suited for demanding environments. This mechanism of hardening through co-reactions makes these coatings particularly effective in industrial and commercial applications.

In contrast, inorganic coatings typically do not rely on this type of curing mechanism but instead may involve processes like oxidation or hydration. Solvent-based coatings might dry through evaporation rather than polymerization, and while acrylic coatings can involve polymerization, they do not characterize the co-reaction process as strongly as epoxies, urethanes, and polyureas do in forming