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Your Host and Tour Guide:
Paul Oman, MS, MBA - Progressive Epoxy Polymers, Inc.
Member: NACE (National Assoc. of Corrosion Engineers), SSPC (Soc. of Protective Coatings)
"Professionals helping Professionals"
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Today most two part epoxies do not contain solvents and are said to be solvent free. This is commonly described
as containing 0% VOC or 100% solids. However, just because it contains no solvents, this doesn't mean it can be
shipped without any kind of restrictions. In fact, a majority of epoxy curing agents (the Part B or hardener) are
classified as 'hazmat' for shipping purposes. I know of no epoxies where the Part A is classified as 'hazmat'.
As far as I know, hazmat epoxy curing agents are no more dangerous or unhealthy than non hazmat epoxy curing agents. The hazmat classification has to do only with shipping and why some curing agents are hazmat and others are not is a mystery to me.
There are a few epoxy curing agents that do not carry the hazmat label and can be shipped without any sort of restrictions. This is very important as it is increasing difficult, if not completely prohibited, to ship hazmat goods by air. Special training is required (which we do not have). This means usually means getting a 'sample' of epoxy to a customer overseas is not practical. FED EX charges about $40 per box containing hazmat epoxy curing agents above and beyond the regular shipping charges (plus proof of hazmat training). And many countries will not accept hazmat goods at all. About the only way to ship hazmat epoxies overseas is by sea freight but that usually means shipping hundreds of gallons, certainly not a one or two quart sample. You can see the problem of marketing and selling common hazmat epoxies overseas (that's why Progressive Epoxy Polymers, Inc, has a separate International Catalog.)
Shipping hazmat goods within the USA is possible. The best method is by motor freight (truck) but that also usually means a minimum amount (something like 200 pounds of product). The alternative is something called ORD-M labeling and shipping. Under ORD-M regulations small amounts (amount depends upon the hazmat product and its flash point) can be shipped by ground transportation (USPS parcel post or UPS ground) without additional fees or paperwork. Specific labeling and packing is required and shipping by air (overnight, second day, express mail etc.) is not allowed. Amount of the product (container size) is based upon "Packing Group Number" which is based upon the chemical and/or flash point.
IN SUMMARY: hazmat epoxy curing agents and some paints can generally be be shipped by surface transportation within the USA (lower 48 states) without additional fees via the ORM-D system. They cannot be shipped by air inside or outside the USA. Fortunately there are non-hazmat epoxies available that can be shipped without problems.
The Sale/use of solvent based coatings is restricted in certain
states and/or counties. This is separate from the issue of shipping. Click Here for more info on VOC restrictions.
Knowledge is Power - We like informed consumers!
Learn the basics of epoxy at our educational EPOXY 101 page - Click Here.
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