Could Odorless Polyurethane Be Used for Wood Tabletops?

The fumes in traditional finishes, including lacquer and varnish, are a factor to consider when deciding on the perfect way to complete a tabletop. Waterborne polyurethanes don’t have the same wires, however they don’t have all the same qualities as these substances, either. In some instances, that can be a good thing.

Polyurethane Chemistry

Solvent-based polyurethane is in fact a traditional masonry to that polyurethane — a plastic — has been added to toughen up the finish. The solvents usually consist of mineral spirits and its smelly components, such as toluene and xylene. The composition of water-based polyurethane is more complicated; it actually contains two solvents. The finish material, which is an acrylic plastic fortified with urethane, is suspended at a slowly evaporating solvent, such as glycol ether, and the mixture is dissolved in water. The remedy is relatively odorless, but glycol ethers aren’t entirely benign; in California, they are considered air pollution in California.

Utilizing Waterborne Polyurethane

Waterborne polyurethane is just as durable as the solvent-based selection, and even though it was dissolved in water when you implemented it, it also resists water and most other spills, which makes it a acceptable finish for tabletops. It consumes the amber hue of classic varnish, and even though it may seem to be washed-out and also have a bluish tinge, it’s actually clear. You can apply it by spray or brush. If you brush it, then you must take care to avoid bubbles during program by using slow and simple movements.

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