With the company’s extensive experience in material science, a natural extension to the traditional business was the move into the construction and mining performance chemicals sector. The manufacture of epoxy resins in large quantities for in-house use led to the development of the Paragon epoxy resins range of industrial products.
A “paragon” is defined as a person or thing regarded as a perfect example of a particular quality, eg a perfect diamond of 100 carats or more.
Matrix’s R&D chemists set out to formulate a range of products that match the qualities described by the brand name. To do this, a particular quality needed to be defined in order to live up to its name.
One aspect of epoxy resin chemistry that becomes very obvious to the frequent user is the hazardous nature of these products. With this in mind, state of the art technologies have been applied to Paragon’s formulation to significantly mitigate the risk to users from frequent exposure. At the same time, the products’ inherent functional specifications conform to all physical standards without compromise.
Table 1 demonstrates the reduced hazard potential in Paragon epoxy crusher backing resin when compared with three competing brands on the market. It is critical to note that two key hazard elements – chronic health and acute toxicity – have been eliminated from the Paragon formulation.
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To ensure the properties and performance of Paragon, Matrix undertakes vigorous product and verification testing. These tests confirm the products are fit for purpose and in line with the requirements of international quality standard ISO 9001.
The successful launch of Paragon crusher backing grout (standard and slow grades) into the Australian market has been achieved in conjunction with distributor Minprovise.
There has been a keen interest from industry given the need to maintain the highest and most consistent standards of occupational health and safety in the workplace. Paragon epoxy resins complement this obligation by providing a safer epoxy resin grout for use by maintenance personnel.
The Paragon product range consists of the following:
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Paragon general purpose grout – multipurpose backing, concrete repair.
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Paragon deep pour grout – pourable grout for >50mm gaps.
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Paragon hi-flow grout – crack injection repair of concrete and use as primer compound in surface preparation for the other grout products.
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Paragon crusher backing grout (standard) – wear plate backing compound.
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Paragon crusher backing grout (slow) – wear plate backing compound with longer pot life than standard grade.
Paragon epoxy resins are manufactured in Matrix’s manufacturing headquarters in Henderson, Western Australia. The 20,000m2 factory is a world class facility that has delivered numerous operational efficiencies.
Paragon products from the plant can be delivered within short time frames and at quantity.
Source: Matrix Composites & Engineering