Stewart Systems Paint Products

[kmacht]

Just to add some clarification 1k paint is not the same as single stage although you will see some places use the term interchangeably. A 1k paint requires no activator, hardener, or catalyst to be added before spraying. The stuff that comes out of a aerosol can is a 1k. A single stage paint is one that doesn't require a clear top coat to be applied but it still does require an activator or hardener to be mixed in with the paint before applying it. Most single stages are acrylic based paint and while the paint itself doesn't have any isocyanates the hardener or activator that you mix with the paint does. It is just as toxic as a two stage urethane paint. With that said, yes isocyanates are dangerous but as long as you take reasonable precautions you aren't going to kill yourself painting one plane. Just make sure to use a forced air respirator to protect your lungs, a full paint suit (with long sleeves) to keep from absorbing it through your skin, and glasses to keep your eyes safe when painting. The people who have trouble with it are usually the ones you see on tv painting with nothing more than a charcoal respirator wearing shorts and a t-shirt. Even if it doesn't bother you at the time you are painting the isocyanites have a way of building up in your body over time and with a lot of exposure can cause health issues further down the road.

Keith
#554