Positioning of UV-curing finish for renovation of old PVC and linoleum flooring

Purpose and goal

UVElite´s current innovation is a UV-curing lacquer for restoration of old vinyl and linoleum floors as a cost-effective, time-effective, and environmentally friendly alternative for replacement of them. The goal of this project has been to develop UVElite´s innovation to make it easier to use and eliminate current application errors by users with different level of proficiency. Despite unexpected obstacles and issues during implementation, we have been able to achieve our goal to the very significant extent and identify next steps for further development of the product.

Expected results and effects

This project resulted in a significant progress in development of a pigmented UV-curing lacquer which becomes transparent after being exposed to the UV-light. This way, the users are unlikely to miss spots during rolling down the lacquer and hardening it using a portable UV-lamp. The final prototype has been tested in the field by a couple of professional and amateur users with very positive results. The next steps in product development have been identified as a results of those tests that should be assessed and resolved further.

Planned approach and implementation

The project involved several R&D steps including:1.Formulation of a pigmented UV-curing lacquer. 2.Compatibility tests with materials in existing formulation.3.UV-curing 4.Field tests 5.Stability 6.Further measurements. Compatibility and application were shown to be the most critical obstacles in development of the product. Resolving all compatibility challenges without affecting the quality & features of the product demanded more time and resources than what was expected in the beginning. We see the need and possibility to improve the application process of the product.