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Aromatic binders and Aliphatic binders are the most used polyerathane binders in the recreation and surfacing industries. While both binders have excellent binding strength, they react differently to UV rays, and affect the color of EPDM granule and your surface differently.
Aromatic binders are amber in color right out of the pail, so they tend to amber the EPDM granules and therefore the entire surface at the install and over time as they react to UV as they are not as UV stable as their aliphatic cousin. Some colors are affected more than others. (Here is a link to the EPDM colors that are most affected by Aromatic binders) This effect will change over time as the amber sheen sitting on the surface "burns back".
Aliphatic binders are clear in color and do not amber the EPDM granules. They are almost double in price compared to aromatic binders. They are recommended when using colors that amber and when installing on a pool deck and splash pads as they are more resistant to pool chemicals.
In the above picture, the circular patch was actually done in black and blue, but appears "Teal" because of the ambering effect of aromatic binders.
The above pictures show the contrast between a fresh poured in install using black and blue and the same install after the blue colors have ambered.
The bottom line: If you are installing poured in place near a pool or as a splash pad, use aliphatic binders. If you would are using bright colors and the budget is not an issue, use aliphatic binders. Otherwise aromatic binders are good enough. Just be aware of the yellowing effect.
If you have any questions, drop me a line at info@trassig.com or call: 203-659-0456
