24. Fluoropolymers: The unbeatable resin technology for water tank topcoats (Feat. Jeremy Sukola and Kristen Blankenship)

The Red Bucket

Summary Fluoropolymer-based finish coats are the premier performers for elevated water storage tanks in exterior exposures. The specialty FEVE resin on which they are based withstands intense UV radiation, high winds, and intense precipitation while holding gloss and color for decades. And while all of that comes at a cost, water industry expert Jeremy Sukola and chemistry nerd Kristen Blankenship explain how that cost represents a long-term investment that boasts a handsome return. In this episode of The Red Bucket, learn the chemistry, use cases, and regulatory considerations of fluoropolymer topcoats. Also, Kristen ponders the Atlantic Ocean from the top of a cliff, and Jeremy shares a strong opinion about spaghetti sauce. Timestamps

• 00:00 – Introduction
• 02:00 – A brief history of fluoropolymers
• 04:41 – Composition and properties of fluoropolymer coatings
• 08:51 – The role of fluoropolymer topcoats in water tank coating systems
• 13:05 – Fluoropolymer finish coat performance vs. other common technologies
• 15:08 – Fluoropolymer finish coats are not always the best fit
• 17:17 – Promoting long-term visual appeal
• 19:36 – Application properties
• 21:04 – The cost of novel chemistry
• 24:05 – Lifecycle cost benefits of fluoropolymer products
• 25:52 – Human health, PFAS, and forever chemical concerns
• 32:02 – The regulatory landscape today
• 33:53 – Key takeaways
• 35:14 – The Four Questions