Electron Beam (EB) Curable Coatings

As a green solution, RDC’s electron beam coatings are extremely environmentally friendly. Unlike conventional finishes — which often rely on volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can contribute to air pollution — EB curable coatings contain little to no VOCs. This makes them a sustainable finishing option by reducing the emission of harmful chemicals into Earth’s atmosphere. Additionally, the EB curing process does not require heat, further minimizing energy consumption and reducing a manufacturer’s carbon footprint.

Because the electron beam curing process results in a highly cross-linked polymer structure, RDC’s custom EB coatings deliver exceptional performance and durability. They resist abrasions, scuffs, scratches, and chemical exposure, making them ideal for finishing products used in tough applications — including residential and commercial flooring, cabinetry, millwork, hardwood plywood, furniture, and many others. The durability of RDC’s EB coatings can extend the lifespan of these products, minimizing both maintenance costs and the need for frequent reapplications.

RDC custom engineers every EB curable coating to precisely match the desired properties of your product and its target substrate. Each custom EB formulation meets specific requirements, such as flexibility, hardness, or adhesion to various substrates. These include plastics, metals, wood, vinyl, and specialty materials. The ability to adhere to different materials without compromising the integrity of the substrate or the coating itself makes EB coatings ideal for products in a range of markets, from flooring to plastics.

The curing process for EB coatings is incredibly fast, often completed in a matter of seconds. It also allows for all-over curing of highly textured and multi-planed products, where nooks and crannies might not be reached by other curing methodologies. Ideal for high-speed finishing lines, RDC’s custom EB coatings enable manufacturers to significantly reduce cure time and resulting production bottlenecks. Further, EB curing neither requires nor generates heat, eliminating the need for cooling periods and streamlining throughput. Finish defects are also minimized, as this fast-cure method reduces the likelihood of defects such as dust or debris becoming embedded in the coating.

While the capital investment in EB curing equipment is significant, the technology offers substantial long-term cost savings. The durability and resilience of RDC’s EB curable coatings reduce the frequency of reapplications and extend the useful life of the product. Additionally, the speed of the curing process minimizes labor costs while increasing throughput, making EB coatings a cost-effective solution for both high-speed and high-volume production lines. The reduction in energy consumption and the elimination of VOC-related regulatory costs further contribute to the overall cost-effectiveness of EB curable coatings.