‘In the industry we’re facing very strict European legislation. Isocyanates are the top target. In our field we now have to comply with Regulation 2020/1149, which stipulates that, from 23 August 2023 onwards, professionals who use products which contain a certain amount of isocyanates must be trained before they can use those products. Some countries, such as the Netherlands, go even further. The sale and use of products (such as paints) which contain isocyanates are prohibited for private people. This standard is expected to be introduced gradually in other European countries. With our formulations, we make products which are a step ahead of the stricter rules.’

‘The question is how to avoid using isocyanate with a parquet finish. To that end we offer a range of mono-component lacquers which can cope with very high traffic. Think of our Uniqua SQ. The next logical question is: Why do we still have two-component lacquers? The answer is that professionals prefer them because these two-component products are considered as more resistant to stains and have better adhesion. And so, it is difficult for professionals who prefer them for technical reasons to switch over. As manufacturers we have to convince them that there are alternatives which perform equally as well. We’ve already proved that in 2012 with our isocyanate-free two-component Bella lacquer.’

Scores of benefits
‘The benefits of two-component coatings such as Bella are now quite clear, now it’s been technically perfected over a period of ten years and has been tested by several clients. One huge benefit is that safety is guaranteed both for professional and private users. Moreover, component B has no hazard symbol on the label, so it is neither irritating nor corrosive and it contains no pollutant substances for the marine environment. It also has the EN 71 certificate, which guarantees the safety of children.’

‘Other benefits are that these products target a wide public which is aware of the problem of safety and environmental effects; the finish is applied in two coats without any primer (for resistance to high traffic and stains), so it saves a lot of time. Moreover, this lacquer is available in all possible aspects: glossy, matt, extra matt, and invisible, so it meets all demands in terms of aesthetic results.’

Even more visibility is needed
‘In Belgium we had a lot of success after the initial launch of the product at Domotex Hannover, followed by Publicity campaigns and a follow-up via our social media. We’re not surprised by this success in Belgium, since people there are well aware of the store ban in chain stores. Recently, we’ve decided to launch this highly innovative product again because the subject is increasingly under consideration and we’re convinced that public interest will increase and force professionals in some way or other to use it.’

‘The above also immediately raises the question as to what we plan to do in the (near) future. For instance, we’ve now added another product to our range, namely Natural Wood Oil. This is a water-based natural wood oil which is perfectly compatible with the isocyanate-free B-component. And so, it can be given a catalyst to increase its resistance. The big benefit is a super invisible and extra matt finish with a gloss degree below five! Moreover, the product is formulated with vegetable resins and therefore has only a minimal impact on the environment. In short, this is an outstanding solution which combines performance and respect for the planet."