Architects, contractors and engineers aim to create buildings that are sustainable, aesthetically pleasing and durable. To accomplish this, they often turn to high-performance materials.

During the AIA Conference on Architecture 2017, April 27-29, in Orlando, Florida, Covestro will showcase its broad portfolio of polycarbonates, polyurethanes and raw materials for coatings at booth #3751. Show attendees will have the opportunity to learn about these high-performance materials and see first-hand a variety of applications incorporating them. Here is a peek at what Covestro will have on display at AIA.

At AIA, Covestro will demonstrate panelized construction utilizing polyurethane for both structure and insulation. Panelization offers a variety of benefits, including high-quality, reproducible panels built in a controlled environment, shorter cycle times and reduced labor requirements.

Covestro will highlight its polycarbonate sheet for glazing and security applications. Among these is a canopy utilizing Makrolon® UV polycarbonate sheet for continuous protection from the elements. This material, which contributed to the canopy’s sleek appearance, features exceptional weatherability and high impact resistance. A heavy-duty door system developed using Makrolon® 15 polycarbonate sheet will also be on display. This material offers a glass-like appearance and design flexibility, yet is also durable and impact resistant. Makrolon 15 polycarbonate sheet has a 15 year limited product warranty.

Visitors can learn about Hygard® polycarbonate laminate sheets, which provide a complete glazing solution that protects against blasts, ballistics, forced entry and severe storms. Incorporating multiple layers of polycarbonate sheet, this durable material is half the weight of glass, and offers excellent visual quality, design flexibility and energy efficiency in new or retrofit projects.

Covestro will also showcase skylights made with Makrolon SK1 polycarbonate sheet. This smooth and prismatic polycarbonate sheet is an excellent choice for advanced daylighting applications.
                                                               
Covestro’s raw materials help formulate a variety of floor coatings. Among these are polyaspartic floor coatings, which provide excellent abrasion resistance, thereby extending service life and reducing maintenance cost. In addition, these coatings offer high film build and fast curing. Polyaspartic floor coatings are ideal for decorative chip systems, as a clearcoat over decorative stained concrete, or for sanded anti-slip finishes.

Covestro’s materials are also used to create waterborne polyurethane floor coatings. With superior abrasion and chemical resistance, along with a very low volatile organic compound (VOC) and odor when compared to solventborne polyurethane and epoxy, these two component aliphatic urethane coatings work well as an exterior brick paver sealer, decorative concrete topcoats or industrial floor finishes.

During the event, Covestro experts will present on a variety of topics at the Covestro Learning Lounge (#3281LL).

• High-Performing Cavity Wall Assemblies That Meet NFPA 285: On Thursday, April 27, 10:45-11:45 a.m., and Friday, April 28, 12:30-1:30 p.m., Gary Gardner, industrial marketing, Covestro LLC, will discuss how polyiso board and spray foam can meet the NFPA 285 flame propagation requirements for wall assemblies.
• Polycarbonate Sheets for High-Performance Architectural Glazing: On Thursday, April 27, 2:30-3:30 p.m., Friday, April 28, 10:45-11:45 a.m., and Saturday, April 29, 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m., Thomas Niziolek, architectural segment manager, Polycarbonate Sheet, Covestro LLC, will present on the benefits of polycarbonate sheet products for a variety of uses, including architectural glazing systems.
• High-Performance Coatings for Industrial and Decorative Floors: On Thursday, April 27, 12:30-1:30 p.m., Friday, April 28, 2:00-3:00 p.m., and Saturday, April 29, 9:15-10:15 a.m., Steven Reinstadtler, market manager, Construction Coatings, Coatings, Adhesives & Specialties, Covestro LLC, will discuss how to use high-performance floor coatings to preserve, adapt, or retask new or existing spaces as a seamless alternative to ceramic or vinyl tile or sheet flooring.

Separately, Tim Thiel, in his role as board member of the 2030 Districts Network, will make a presentation about the Architecture 2030 District initiative on Saturday, April 29, 7:00-8:00 a.m. Thiel is an industrial marketing manager, Polyurethanes, Covestro LLC.

AIA attendees are invited to attend the presentations, and also visit Covestro’s booth (#3751). There, they can speak with experts about the company’s portfolio of products and technologies for the building and construction industry, and see real-life examples utilizing these materials.