Information from

Technical Sales Support

Chalking of epoxy coatings

The coatings industry understands that the photolytic oxidation process (attack by sunlight) is
a universal form of irreversible degradation in paint films. Weathering (UV attack, rain
erosion, wetting and drying periods, cyclic temperature, wind erosion with air borne particles)
all contribute to the degradation of a coating film. Weathering is a natural process and it
affects all organic coating types. UV attacks polyurethane, epoxy, alkyd, vinyl and other
organic generic resins used in coatings. Only inorganic binders such as those used in
inorganic zinc silicates are not affected by UV attack.

Epoxy coatings are especially prone to UV attack and this can result in yellowing and loss of
gloss. Epoxy coatings lose gloss and chalk more rapidly than polyurethane, alkyd, acrylic or
vinyl paint in exterior service.

In most cases, if the chalk that develops on the surface is left undisturbed, the chalk rate can
slow. If the chalk is constantly removed by rain, washing or wave action the chalking rate
continues as new surface is exposed to UV light. Apart from the erosive degradation of the
film, the chalk does not have a negative effect on the barrier properties of the total film, and
corrosion protection is not negatively affected.

Epoxies are based on the diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A resin, and this molecule is highly
chromophoric. (Chromophore - a group of atoms in a molecule that produces colour in dyes
and other compounds through selective absorption of light, e.g. the azo group) –ref Encarta
Dictionary

Chromophores, when irradiated with UV light of a given energy, absorb the energy and
produce chemical groups known as colour bodies. They absorb light and cause intense colour
in the degraded polymer, known as yellowing.

Most epoxy coatings have been recorded as chalking 3-4 microns per year in the sun in
Norway. It follows that longer periods of sunshine and more intense radiation in countries
near the equator would produce higher rates of chalking.

In short, epoxy film chalks rapidly when compared to other paint film when exposed to UV
light because of above mentioned chromophoric molecules in the film. Chalking is a natural
consequence of exposure to UV light. The chromophore amount can vary with the actual
formulation which is largely a consequence of the required features of the coating. Such
features can be chemical and abrasion resistance, work ability, adhesion, cure time, durability
expectations and other physical properties.

Document identification: TSS-TI-021-02 Prepared by: Geoff White

Date: 26.01.2012 Approved by: Tor Aasrum
Version: 2 Number of pages 1 of 2
Care needs to be taken when overcoating epoxy surfaces to remove all tightly adhering
residual chalk, and abrade the surface prior to painting. Failure to comply with this
requirement can cause intercoat adhesion problems. When overcoating epoxy surfaces within
the time limits given in technical data sheets, chalking is normally of no concern.

Polyurethane- or polysiloxane based topcoats are most often used to prevent chalking, and
secure a long lasting finish with good gloss- and color retention.

Sandefjord, 26.01.2012
Jotun Coatings
Technical Sales Support

Document identification: TSS-TI-021-02 Prepared by: Geoff White

Date: 26.01.2012 Approved by: Tor Aasrum
Version: 2 Number of pages 2 of 2