Barriers to the use of radiation-curable adhesives in the coated and laminated substrate manufacturing industry

The Air and Energy Engineering Research Laboratory (AEERL) of the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is investigating the barriers to the use of radiation-cured technology in the coated and laminated substrate manufacturing industry. This paper presents information gathered from radiation-curable coating and equipment suppliers as well as technical publications. The focus of this project was to investigate the use of radiation-curable coatings as an alternative to conventional solvent-based coatings used in the coated and laminated substrate manufacturing industry. Data obtained included material inputs, equipment, output characteristics, emissions, and waste. Information was gathered to compare process and cost impacts to evaluate the technical, educational, and economic barriers to radiation-curable coatings for this industry. Pollution prevention/source reduction research opportunities were also identified.