24. Fluoropolymers: The unbeatable resin technology for water tank topcoats (Feat. Jeremy Sukola and Kristen Blankenship)

09/05/2025 39 min
24. Fluoropolymers: The unbeatable resin technology for water tank topcoats (Feat. Jeremy Sukola and Kristen Blankenship)

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Episode Synopsis

Summary
 
Fluoropolymer-based finish coats are the premier performers for elevated water storage tanks in exterior exposures. The specialty FEVE resin on which they are based withstands intense UV radiation, high winds, and intense precipitation while holding gloss and color for decades. And while all of that comes at a cost, water industry expert Jeremy Sukola and chemistry nerd Kristen Blankenship explain how that cost represents a long-term investment that boasts a handsome return. In this episode of The Red Bucket, learn the chemistry, use cases, and regulatory considerations of fluoropolymer topcoats. 
 
Also, Kristen ponders the Atlantic Ocean from the top of a cliff, and Jeremy shares a strong opinion about spaghetti sauce. 
 
 
Timestamps 

00:00 – Introduction 
02:00 – A brief history of fluoropolymers 
04:41 – Composition and properties of fluoropolymer coatings 
08:51 – The role of fluoropolymer topcoats in water tank coating systems 
13:05 – Fluoropolymer finish coat performance vs. other common technologies 
15:08 – Fluoropolymer finish coats are not always the best fit 
17:17 – Promoting long-term visual appeal
19:36 – Application properties 
21:04 – The cost of novel chemistry 
24:05 – Lifecycle cost benefits of fluoropolymer products 
25:52 – Human health, PFAS, and forever chemical concerns 
32:02 – The regulatory landscape today 
33:53 – Key takeaways 
35:14 – The Four Questions

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