Henkel and Weir Minerals, the manufacturer of Linatex®, a brand of natural rubber, launch LINATEX® LOCTITE® - LINA 88™, a new solvent-free and zero VOC adhesive range for rubber lining. The adhesive is designed specifically for Weir Minerals Linatex® rubber products (used to line mineral processing equipment). The adhesive enhances sustainability and delivers bond strength at the same time.
Cutting Down on VOC Emissions
Henkel creates solutions and customized technologies for adhesives, sealants, and functional coatings to maximize value for OEMs and their customers. This has been demonstrated in the collaboration with Weir to bring breakthroughs in adhesive technology to the mining industry.
The objective for Weir Minerals was to offer a solvent-free adhesive for rubber lining applications with zero volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Carbon-based VOCs are undesirable due to their negative impact on the environment and occupational safety.
The challenge in this joint development project: cutting down on VOC emissions must not lead to a compromise in adhesive performance. Henkel’s input and technical support throughout the R&D phase proved fundamental in achieving a highly successful outcome.
Cold-bonding Rubber Adhesive for Mining Sector
Based on a proprietary formulation, the new LINATEX® LOCTITE® - LINA 88™ cold-bonding rubber adhesive range surpasses the current British Standard by up to a factor of four but is significantly stronger than existing adhesives used by the mining sector for rubber lining applications.
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We've had many customers across the globe approach us to help them find ways to improve safety for their employees,” explains Mark Doyle, global product manager – Linatex® Rubber and Hose.
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Our team worked closely with Loctite® experts to develop an adhesive that is stronger than existing products with the double benefit of being free of solvents and VOCs. Coincidentally, many mine sites and even regional governments are now starting to mandate the use of adhesives with zero VOCs,” added Doyle.
Ricardo Garib, Weir Minerals Division President said, “
Working with Henkel to develop an adhesive that not only outperforms what is currently in the market but also delivers environmental and safety benefits is a fantastic result for mine operators and their employees. Weir Minerals promotes a safe environment for everyone.”
The whole range of LINATEX® LOCTITE® - LINA 88™ products is non-flammable. The adhesive is easy to transport and does not require any special handling or storage facilities. It is also possible to spray the adhesive over the top of the rubber lining to deliver solid protection against the effects of UV. The enhanced strength of LINATEX® LOCTITE® - LINA 88™ adhesive range and the long wear life of Linatex® premium rubber produces an attractive and environmentally responsible solution for mines seeking long-lasting equipment protection.
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Henkel is pleased that the collaboration with Weir Minerals has helped bring this innovation to market,” states Mark Dorn, senior vice president craftsmen, construction & professional for Henkel Adhesive Technologies, and president of Henkel Asia Pacific. “
It’s exciting to pioneer new solutions for our customers that can deliver on both innovation and sustainability. Being able to positively impact environmental and occupational safety for those in the mining industry is a rewarding accomplishment for the team.”
Source: Henkel