Weir Minerals Launches New Line of Zero VOC Adhesives for Rubber Coatings
Bernice J. Hicks
3 min read
Wtheir minerals, maker of Linatex®, the world’s leading premium natural rubber brand, has partnered with the world’s largest adhesive producer Henkel and its team of adhesives, sealants and coatings specialists LOCTITE®, to develop a first solvent-free adhesive for rubber coatings in the mining industry. applications without volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
VOCs are organic carbon-based chemicals that are often used in adhesives, paints and coatings. They are subject to strict regulations, with some governments aiming to limit worker exposure while others target large-scale emissions to improve air quality. Mining companies are also targeting VOC emissions as part of their sustainability strategies.
Always keen to develop new solutions that meet the needs of their mining customers, in collaboration with Henkel, Weir Minerals has developed the LINATEX® LOCTITE® – LINA 88 ™ range of cold rubber adhesives in response to the growing need for safer and more durable products. Complementing industry-leading Linatex® rubber products, this breakthrough in adhesive technology reflects Weir’s core values of safety, durability and performance.
With the new LINATEX® LOCTITE® – LINA 88 ™ products, reducing VOC emissions does not mean having to compromise on performance. The custom-formulated LINATEX® LOCTITE® – LINA 88 ™ range of rubber adhesives sets a new industry benchmark for bond strength by exceeding up to four times the current UK standard and is significantly stronger than other products currently used in mining.
“Many customers around the world have contacted us to help them find ways to improve the safety of their employees,” says Mark Doyle, Global Product Manager – Linatex® Rubber and Hose. “At Weir Minerals, we take safety very seriously and have looked at several possible solutions. Our team worked closely with LOCTITE experts and developed an adhesive that is stronger than any other product on the market today with the double advantage of being solvent-free and VOC-free. Coincidentally, many mine sites and even regional governments are now starting to mandate that only non-VOC adhesives be used on site – we are delighted to say that we have a product that meets this challenge.
The focus on safety and sustainability was the main driver of the project, emphasizes Ricardo Garib, president of the Weir Minerals division: “Working with Henkel to develop an adhesive that not only surpasses what is currently on the market, but offers Also environmental and safety benefits is a fantastic result for mine operators and their employees. Weir Minerals promotes a safe environment for all; We consider this a priority for our customers and our own staff in our service centers where we cover Linatex rubber mineral processing equipment. Sustainability being a key issue within our industry, we are proud to be at the forefront with new innovative products ”.
“We are delighted that our collaboration with Weir Minerals has helped bring this new innovation to market,” said Mark Dorn, senior vice president of craftsmen, construction and professionals, for Henkel Adhesive Technologies and president of Henkel Asia Pacific. “It is always exciting to be the pioneer of new solutions for our customers, able to offer both innovation and sustainability. Being able to have a positive impact on the environmental and occupational safety of people in the mining industry is definitely a rewarding achievement for the team.
Dr. Nigel Fay, Corporate Vice President, Innovation and Application Engineering, for Henkel adhesive technologies, is also extremely proud to share this important step with Weir Minerals: “Bringing this breakthrough innovation to market is representative of the mission that LOCTITE activity has accomplished for nearly 70 years. It’s about leveraging our expertise, our passion for innovation, and our focus on solving the toughest challenges to create new value for customers. Having the opportunity to bring this to life in collaboration with another industry leader like Weir Minerals has been extremely satisfying and is a true model of future success in the field of innovation.
The new range of LINATEX® LOCTITE® – LINA 88 ™ adhesives has been extensively tested in the APAC region, exceeding customer expectations. Weir Minerals will specify the new solvent-free and VOC-free products for all of their Linatex® applications worldwide.
The entire range is non-flammable and therefore safer to use, easy to transport and does not require any special handling or storage facilities. It can also be sprayed on top of the rubber liner to provide strong UV protection.
By combining the increased strength of the new range of LINATEX® LOCTITE® – LINA 88 ™ adhesives with the long life of premium Linatex® rubber, the result is a much sought-after durable solution for miners seeking protection. durable for their equipment.
