Pu based finishes: Asian Paints Aquadur PU

The following post documents my experiences using Asian Paints Aqudur PU.

The advantages of Asian Paints Aquadur PU

1. This is a brand that is available near home. That is why the choice of the brand. 
2. It is water based: dilution with tap water and washing with water. What more could one ask for!
3. Fast drying: Prevents dust build up 
4. Very easy for kids to use. 
5. It does not darken the wood after finishing. When wood is wet, it appears darker. This is what happens when one uses a finish like the Woodtech PU or Touch wood. However with the Aquadur PU, the wood will retain its natural color. This is important if you want to retain the lightness of the wood to contrast with a darker wood. 

Cost 

On the more expensive side. It may cost about Rs 500 or  more per liter

Disadvantages

1. Leaves a slight milky hue as the layers build up. This will be more visible on a dark wood. With one coat on a light wood it is not really a problem. 

Application. 

1. Sand and clean the surface. 
2. Apply Aquadur PU base coat
3. Lightly sand with 400 grit paper. Apply a second coat if needed and sand
4. Apply the Top coat o Aquadur (matte/glossy)
5. For a matte effect add more coats to get it more matte (not intutive but that's the way it is)
6. For a glossy effect add more coats to get it more glossy. 
7. The more the coats, the more the milky hue. 
8. Stop when you feel you have got a good enough finish. 

Cleaning

With tap water. I do this in the sink. All brushes and bowls can be cleaned easily. This is the main advantage of the PU. 

How I use it.

This is my go to finish when I make toys. It is easy to use. I set up the painting station on the dining table, (with due permissions and through proper channels) with a layer of newspapers, and over a couple of evenings  the finish is complete. Washing brushes is very easy.
I also use this for a quick finish (only the base coat) when I just want to protect a wood, but am not particular as to how the wood should look. For example a quick project with plywood can be covered with the base coat, just to protect it. Once this is done the wood can even be wiped with a wet cloth for more coats when I have the time.