Chemistry 101 at #AIACon17
The American Institute of Architects’ Conference on Architecture brings together thousands of architects and building and design industry professionals this week in Orlando, with the opportunity to see the latest innovative building products and meet with companies that support the industry.
American Chemistry Council members are showcasing products that enable the latest efficient, durable and resilient materials for both commercial and residential structures.
Chemicals enhance performance in a range of products and applications, from flooring, furnishings, and lighting, to insulation and heating and cooling systems, to adhesives, epoxy linings, paints and coatings and sealants.
Chemistry contributions to the built environment are:
- Durable and Protective: Architects, builders and designers select chemistry-based products because they last a long time and protect the building structure. Paints, coatings, and sealants used throughout a building help protect it from the elements and wear and tear.
- Great Value: Chemistry helps architects, builders and occupants save money, whether at product installation or over the course of a building’s lifetime. Products like spray foam insulation seal a building, minimizing air leaks and saving homeowners money in heating and cooling costs for years down the road. Countertops or flooring made from vinyl and composite and engineered wood products can mimic the appearance of natural products, giving the allure of expensive woods, ceramic, marble, stone or quartz – but at a fraction of the cost. Some are lighter and easier for homeowners to install themselves. For example, luxury vinyl tile (LVT) can be installed with or without grout.
- Energy Efficient: From insulation to lighting, chemistry can contribute to a smaller environmental footprint for buildings. For example, highly reflective roof coatings made using chemistries like acrylics, urethanes, silicones and styrene block copolymers (such as SBS and SEBS) helps lessen air leaks, reducing energy usage and keeping costs down for occupants.
Visit these booths at #AIACon17 to learn more about how American Chemistry Council members are creating the materials for tomorrow’s high performing buildings.
