Research & Development
Overview
Our Research and Development
Here at Kubela® Advanced Materials, Inc., we proudly take a very novel and fresh problem-solving approach to our research, development and testing in the creation of our entire exciting suite of highly advanced products. At KAM, we place all our R&D efforts and focus on the specific industry problems and real pain our customers are experiencing, and then we work tirelessly with our customers to rapidly find cutting-edge, true and lasting water-based solutions. And we proudly do so as unrelentingly pioneers through advanced, innovative and unrelenting advanced science and chemistry research, utilizing the very best scientists, chemists, testing methods and laboratories we can find globally.
Unfortunately, this is largely not the case with our competition, which continues to subscribe to this industry’s age-old, tired and ineffective R&D standards and practices, which lack any measurable innovation, and moreover, a genuine problem-solving approach. Our competition mostly forces their customers into one of their existing, typically inferior, ineffective and highly overpriced products, and then tells their customers to simply “hope for the best”. KAM intends to end this industry’s decades old vicious and very costly cycle of needless recoat after recoat after recoat—with no end in sight.
It won’t take long to find an endless list of customer complaints online upset over “high quality” overpriced, underperforming and expensive paints, coatings, epoxies, etc., that constantly fail prematurely in every application type across the board. This centuries-old premature paint failure epidemic causes needless and very expensive repaints, which also often results in very costly, and potentially deadly, damage to structures and other property. The industry’s answer to this chronic problem is to simply buy more of their paint and recoat, over and over again.
Seeking and achieving revolutionary, lasting, fresh and true solutions in this industry is at the very core of all we do as a company. As our Mission Statement proudly states, KAM is passionately dedicated to always delivering the very best products and services to our customers globally, which begins with our stellar, unmatched product research, development, and testing team of leading scientists, chemists and testing facilities globally.
About Our Products
Kubela® Advanced Materials, Inc. (KAM)
Our products are—and always will be—the most extensively tested paint, coating and additive products on the global market today, and going forward. Many competitor products have no test results on their websites and only a few even post any test results, which are usually few and far between, are buried deep in their website, and worse, are typically unimpressive and vaguely described. Competitors simply rarely disclose any test results that back up their nebulous product claims.
Not so with our company. Every testable feature and benefit that we claim for every one of our current or future products will always be fully backed by independent ASTM certified testing. And that is in addition to our own rigorous internal 24/7/365 extreme weather and underwater product testing that has been ongoing with KAM for 18+ years—and counting, all of which will be proudly posted and regularly updated on our website for every single product we ever develop and commercialize.
To that end, below is a very comprehensive “Tested Features & Benefits” chart of our pioneering signature product – PaintOnce® All-Purpose Exterior Wall & Trim Coating:
Our Mission
Our ultimate and steadfast mission as a company is to consistently and cheerfully provide each and every customer, at every touchpoint, the very best products, services and warranties at the very best prices, delivered passionately with the very best customer service achievable in our industry.
Test Results, Features & Benefits
Exterior Coating Test Results, Features & Benefits
| # | Features | Test Methods | Results | Benefits / Observations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1. |
Low Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) Content |
VOC Levels EPA Method 24 |
61 g/L | Coating has one of the lowest VOC ratings for a high-performance, industrial grade coating product in its class/category, with a significant positive impact on our environment. (Note— VOC levels will be reduced even lower to/below 50 g/L to meet/exceed Southern California AQMD requirements during formulation updates.) |
2. | High Adhesion |
Adhesion ASTM D-3359 | 100% |
100% of coating membrane remained intact and attached to the substrate during this (tape pull) test, indicating no loss of adhesion of the coating from the substrate. |
3. |
High Adhesion |
Adhesion ASTM D-4541 |
680psi |
Adherence testing results for paint and coatings seldom exceed 500psi (pounds per square inch). Coating tested at an amazing 680psi. For some perspective, typical paint products fail between 150-300psi, quality epoxy fails at 500psi and concrete fails at 600psi. Coating will not delaminate, chip, peel, or fail to adhere to any sound approved surface it is properly applied to, including most wood, masonry, concrete, stucco, vinyl and even metal surfaces. This will dramatically increase the protection and lifespan of the substrate. |
4. | High |
Abrasion ASTM D-4060 | 85 mg of loss 1000 cycles |
Coating is highly resistant to abrasion. Abrasion resistance is better than some epoxy coatings |
5. | Maximum Hard Impact Resistance |
Hard Surface Rapid Impact Resistance ASTM D-2794 | Direct Impact: 160 + in.lbs. Reverse Impact: 160 + in.lbs. |
Coating passed this test with NO failure at the maximum rating and exhibited amazing resistance to damage from hail, baseballs, golf balls, etc., and is virtually impervious to most hard surface impacts. For perspective, normally a 20 in. lbs. test result is considered a very good rating for a coating product. |
6. | Breathable Water Barrier |
Moisture Vapor Transmission ASTM E-96, Method B | 12 Perms |
Most water barrier products do not breathe, trapping moisture within the substrate, causing mold and mildew to grow and delamination and degradation to the substrate. Coating does not allow water to penetrate the coating and subsequent substrate, yet it allows any moisture vapor within the substrate to escape and evaporate. Coating was specifically engineered and formulated to achieve a perm rating of 12. This is because a 12-perm rating is precisely what makes this product a perfectly balanced/formulated (breathable) water barrier coating. |
7. | High Elongation (Elasticity)/ Tensile Strength |
Elongation / Tensile Strength ASTM D-2370 | 300% Elongation with 100% Memory |
This test measures the elasticity of a coating. Coating can be stretched to an amazing 300% (and more) of its original size and has 100% memory (at the 300% mark), returning to its original size and shape. This feature greatly helps to resist cracking and prolongs the life of the coating and substrate. |
8. | Maximum Flexibility |
Flexibility ASTM D-522 | Passed: 1/8” Rod Test (Maximum Break Level) |
Coating is extremely flexible and is unlikely to crack, even in some of the most adverse conditions. For this test, a conical rod is used to bend the coating applied on metal. The smaller the rod used, the greater the flexibility. The 1/8” rod is the smallest and most radical bend. Passed with the 1/8” rod with no failure. |
9. | Scientifically Engineered Hardness for High Performance and Long Life |
Hardness ASTM D-3363 | 3B |
Coating was specifically engineered and formulated to this exact hardness to achieve high performance and extended life of the coating. Coating’s hardness level reduces the chances of cracking and chipping that other harder, more brittle coatings or epoxies typically experience and result in failure. A coating that is too hard increases the chances of cracking and failure. Coating achieved this hardness with an oil solvent-free, water-based acrylic resin, making it a Green/Environmentally friendly product. |
10. | Fish Bio Friendly |
Aquatic Test Fish Pond | Passed: No loss of fish |
Coating is not a hazard to fish or wildlife if accidentally spilled and diluted in water, resulting in a non-toxic product. |
11. | Fast Dry/Recoat Times |
Dry Times ASTM D-1640 | Set to touch in Under 30 minutes Recoat in under 1 hour |
Coating reduces labor costs with its rapid dry times for both coats. Most industrial grade/like coatings have much longer dry times, with recoat times taking from 12 hours to several weeks in some cases to dry for recoat. In most cases, coating can be recoated in under one hour. |
12. | Superior Thermal Barrier/Energy Saver |
Reflectivity ASTM D-4803-97 | 88.1 |
Due to coating’s high ceramic content and reflective technology formulation, coating can significantly reduce heat transfer from the brutal solar rays through the substrate and into the structure. A cooler surface can also substantially preserve and add many more years to both the coating and substrate. The same ceramic technology is utilized by NASA to protect the Space Shuttle from extreme heat upon re-entry. For reference, a test result of 100 is the highest rating for reflectivity. |
13. | Superior Thermal Barrier/Energy Saver |
Solar Reflectance ASTM E-1918 | 0.84 |
This second test for solar reflectance is measured with a radiometer. Here the coating was measured for reflectivity against visible, infrared and ultraviolet solar energy. Coating rated very high in this test, as well, further supporting Coating’s superior thermal barrier properties. For reference, a rating of 1.0 is the highest reflective rating achievable. |
14. | Superior Thermal Barrier/Energy Saver |
Infrared (IR) Emittance ASTM E-408 | .85 |
This test is a measurement of how much energy is re-radiated from the surface and not absorbed. Again, coating rated very high, scoring .85. This test is rated from 0 to 1. The higher the number, the more radiant energy (light and heat) is reflected from the surface. This minimizes the transference of radiant energy, keeping the surface cooler. |
15. | Superior Thermal Barrier/Energy Saver |
Thermal Modeling Dr. Heinz Poppendiek, PhD. Applied Physics | 52% Energy Savings (on new surface) 19% Energy Savings (pre-painted surface) |
The calculations for this test were made for typical wall systems using seven different building surfaces. The test included wood and masonry surfaces and various types of batt installation. The model was based on using coating and bare stucco. Coating displayed notable energy savings of up to 52%. Coating will lower utility costs when air conditioning is used. These tests were based on outside temperatures of 75-90° F. In higher temperatures, energy saving percentages are expected to be higher. |
16. | Superior Thermal Barrier/Energy Saver |
Thermal Conductivity ASTM C-518 | .20 btU/FRFT° F |
Thermal conductance is the quantity of heat that passes through the product. The lower the number, the more a material is resistant to heat transferring through the surface. Coating has very low thermal conductivity, resisting heat from passing through the surface, keeping the surface cooler, saving energy. |
17. | High Dirt Resistance |
Dirt Resistance CT-304 / ASTM D-3719 | 64% |
Coating has superior dirt resistance, which assists in keeping the surface cleaner and better looking and reduces maintenance costs and less use of harmful cleaning agents. |
18. | Highest Level Fire Retardant |
Fire Rating E-84 Stiner Tunnel Test | A-1 Rated Fire Retardant |
Coating is an A-1 Rated Fire Retardant product. As such, in the event of a fire, there is more time to escape, no deadly smoke and limited flame spread (from the coating), resulting in reduced risk of loss of life and property. Most A-1 fire rated products are in the range of 15’ of flame spread, with an average 200 smoke rating. Coating had a flame spread of less than 5’ and had ZERO SMOKE. Given there is no smoke resulting from fire, this is yet another Green/environmentally friendly component of coating. Also, there were no signs of blistering or delamination and the concrete painted slabs used in this test were easily cleaned. Many other industrial grade coatings, especially epoxy coatings, are oil solvent-based and are very toxic and highly flammable, both in the can and on the substrate. |
19. | High Non-Volatile Solids Content |
Non-Volatile Solids ASTM D-2369 | 64.3% |
Coating has one of the highest non-volatile solids percentages in the industry. The higher the solids content, the less of the product will evaporate while drying, leaving more product on the substrate, resulting in higher build per coat, reduced cost per square foot and fewer chemicals being released into the atmosphere. |
20. | Heavier Weight Per US Gallon |
Weight per Gallon ASTM D-1475 | 11.6 lbs. per gallon |
Coating is heavier than most coating products. A heavier product equals more usable solids remaining on the substrate and not evaporating into our atmosphere, resulting in a higher build per coat for increased protection and reduced cost per square foot per application. |
21. | High Spread Rate |
Spread Rate CT-200 / ASTM D-2805 | 270 +/- ft2 per gallon |
Coating has a superior spread rate, which reduces costs of material and labor and helps the environment by using fewer resources (10-12 mils of dry film thickness recommended; 5-6 dry mils per coat). |
22. | Superior Flow and Leveling |
Flow & Leveling ASTM D-4062 | 4 |
Coating has superior flow and leveling qualities, which means easier and faster application, enhanced appearance and less waste during application (reduced splatter, dripping, etc.), reducing labor and material costs, helping our environment. |
23. | High Hiding |
Hide ASTM D-2805 | 98% |
Coating is rated as a “high hide” coating product. This means coating will easily cover all colors, including black, with less product than most other coatings, which translates into increased cost savings, especially when covering darker colors and pro-environment. |
24. | High Whiteness |
Whiteness ASTM D-2805 | 93% |
Coating is a super high white coating. This means coating is a nearly 100% pure white. Improved whiteness helps keep the coating cooler, lasting longer and looking cleaner and brighter, resulting in energy savings and longer service life. |
25. | No Sag |
Sag Resistance ASTM D-4400 | Passed – 24 mils (maximum rating) |
Coating tested at a perfect rating of 24 for sag resistance. For reference, The range for this test is from 4-24 wet mils (24 being a perfect rating). This means that coating was able to withstand a 24 wet mil test application without any sagging of any kind. This enhances the look of the finished product and reduces unnecessary cost for labor and materials for sanding/reapplications. |
26. | No Heavy Metals |
Heavy Metals Chemical Analysis | Passed – No heavy metals |
No toxic rated heavy metals detected, making coating an environmentally safe coating product. |
27. | High Water Resistance |
Water Resistance ASTM D-1308 | Passed – No failure after 24 hours |
Coating may be used under water. Tests results showed no loss of adhesion and no blistering after 24 hours under water. |
28. | High Resistance to Wind Driven Rain |
Wind Driven Rain ASTM 6904 | Passed – No moisture penetration |
Coating is an excellent moisture barrier and will protect the substrate against water intrusion. During this test, coating was subjected to 98 miles per hour wind driven rain for 24 hours. After 24 hours, the coated sample had no moisture penetration and there was no evidence of coating failure. |
29. | High Resistance to Salt Spray |
Salt Spray Resistance ASTM B-117 | Passed – No failure |
Coating can withstand severe coastal environments with heavy salt spray without failure. After 200 hours of testing, the coated sample displayed no evidence of blistering or loss of adhesion. |
30. | High Resistance to Humidity |
Humidity Resistance ASTM D-4585 | Passed – No loss of adhesion and no blistering |
Coating may be used in the highest humidity environments without failure. This test determines the adhesion qualities of a product. Coating was subjected to extreme humidity conditions for 150 hours and passed with no loss of adhesion and no blistering. This benefit is also very pro-environment. |
31. | High Fade Resistance |
Weathering ASTM G-154 | Passed – No color fade |
Coating exhibits little or no color change for several decades with light to medium based colors. Coating was exposed to 200 hours of extended ultraviolet (UV) radiation to measure color fade and gloss reduction. Coating displayed no color fade and only slight reduction in gloss, which is expected (gloss levels in all coatings will reduce over time until the product is fully cured). |
32. | High Fade Resistance |
Accelerated Weathering (Arizona, USA) ASTM D-4141 | Passed – No color fade after one year of exposure (or 280 megajoules) |
Once again, Coating exhibited no color fade (with red and black coated samples) during this second accelerated weather test, which was equivalent to one year (or 280 megajoules) of real exposure in a true outside environment. This test uses the EM-MAQUA method of mirrors and water. The coated samples were exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from mirrors that follow the hot desert sun constantly. The samples were also misted with water for three minutes out of every 10. Coating is extremely resistant to color fade, even with lowest fade resistant colors like red and black, which is why red and black were tested. |
33. |
High Scrub-ability |
Scrub-ability ASTM D-2486 |
Passed – No paint failure after 2000 cycles |
Coating is highly resistant to scrubbing. The coated sample was scrubbed with a synthetic bristle brush. This test is performed up to 2000 cycles or when the sample fails. Coating passed with no paint failure after 2000 cycles. |
34. |
Resistant to Chemical Cleaners |
Clean-ability ASTM D-4828 |
Resistant to chemical cleaners |
Coating tested resistant to chemical cleaners. Tougher samples required some scrubbing. |
35. |
Superior Package Stability |
Heat Aged Stability ASTM D-1849 ASTM D-4948 |
Passed – Did not gel |
Coating (in liquid form in the can) was subjected to exposure from a constant heat level of 126° F for 30 days and passed the test with only slight yellowing (not unusual). Many coatings will gel during this test. Coating did not gel. |
36. |
High Viscosity and High Density |
Viscosity ASTM D-562 Brookfield |
12,000 cps |
The viscosity of paints and coatings is a very important property. It affects how easy it is to mix the components of the product during production, how stable it is in storage, how easy it is to apply to a substrate and the manner in which it flows out to form a smooth layer free of defects like runs and brush marks. Coating is, by design, a highly viscous/dense coating, which was specifically engineered and formulated with precise viscosity levels to achieve:
|
37. |
Viscosity ASTM D-562 Stormer |
102 Ku | ||
38. |
Viscosity ASTM D-4287 ICI Cone & Plate |
3.2 cp | ||
39. |
Density ASTM C-167 |
127 lbs./cubic feet | ||
40. |
Superior Gloss Levels |
20° Gloss ASTM D-523 |
1.5 |
During these tests, gloss levels are measured at angles of 20°, 60° and 80° to ensure that the desired gloss levels are achieved. Coating achieved the precise gloss levels during the formulation process for maximum appeal and looks. Coating can be manufactured at any desired gloss level. |
41. |
60° Gloss ASTM D-523 |
5.2 | ||
42. |
80° Sheen ASTM D-523 |
17.9 | ||
43. |
Freeze/Thaw Proof |
Freeze/Thaw ASTM C-112 |
Passed – No coating Failure after 15 cycles |
Coating can handle the harshest winter climates effectively. During this test, five dry samples of Coating were weighed, then immersed in water and frozen and thawed for 15 cycles. The samples were then reweighed and inspected. In all cases, coating experienced no weight loss, no paint failure and no imperfections. |
44. |
Excellent Sound Barrier |
Sound Barrier Acoustic Dynamics |
Hi-Freq: 27 dB reduction Low-Freq: 12 dB reduction |
Coating has proven to be an effective sound barrier. For the purposes of this test, various frequencies were tested using a decibel meter. Coating displayed notable sound reduction qualities. |
45. |
100% Acrylic Water-Based Coating/ Environmentally Safe/ Easy Clean-up |
N/A |
N/A |
|
46. |
Lifetime Warranty |
N/A |
N/A |
Coating carries a limited Lifetime Warranty against paint failure related to the properties and performance of the coating. Because Coating has such an extraordinary product life, this will reduce the need for future recoats preserving our precious natural recourses and lessoning the burden on our landfills due to less use and less disposal of plastic and metal paint cans and lids. |
47. |
Significant Cost Savings |
N/A |
N/A |
Coating costs less than any competitor coating. Coating is cheaper in the can, cheaper to apply, and will outlast any competitor product on the market today, which can save substantially on future labor costs for (otherwise required) repaints. It is generally understood that labor is typically up to 90% of the total cost for paint and coating applications. Fewer recoats is also pro-environment. |
