CoatingsPro offers an in-depth look at coatings based on case studies, successful business operation, new products, industry news, and the safe and profitable use of coatings and equipment.
Issue link: http://coatingspromag.epubxp.com/i/720777
The giraffe enclosure at the Niabi Zoo in Illinois needed some TLC. The old system wasn't keeping up with the giraffe-ians, and they needed walls and floors that were antimicrobial and seamless. For the 1,715 square-foot (159.3 m²) concrete floor, the six-person Concare crew removed the old mat and mastic and installed a three-layer coating system from Protective Industrial Polymers that included Hoof Guard 36 to act as a natural nail file. Feature 36 SEPTEMBER 2016 COATINGSPROMAG.COM BY JENNIFER FRAKES PHOTOS COURTESY PROTECTIVE INDUSTRIAL POLYMERS A Tall Order: Giraffe Enclosure Overhaul T T T he Niabi Zoo, located in Coal Valley, Illinois, is home to more than 140 species of animals. e zoo prides itself on being a leader in conservation and educa- tion, and it is committed to maintaining the health and safety of its animal residents at all times. So when they T d and safety of its animal residents at all times. So when they T safety of its animal residents at all times. So when they determined that the floor and walls of the indoor portion of the T termined determined that the floor and walls of the indoor portion of the T that the floor and walls of the indoor portion of the giraffe exhibit could become a safety hazard for these majestic T affe exhibit could become a safety hazard for these majestic animals, the Niabi Zoo knew it was time to call in the coating T imals, animals, the Niabi Zoo knew it was time to call in the coating T the Niabi Zoo knew it was time to call in the coating experts experts at Concare Inc. and Protective Industrial Polymers T at Concare Inc. and Protective Industrial Polymers (PIP). "A long with our manufacturing partner, Protective Industrial Polymers, we were invited to evaluate the interior of the giraffe enclosure. We were tasked with recommending a removal and replacement solution for the failing wall and floor covering that would keep the giraffes safe, be easy to clean, and reduce the risk of bacterial and fungal growth," said Ron Puszynski, president of Concare Inc. Concare and PIP worked together to find the right solution for some of the zoo's most popular — not to mention tallest — animals. Clean Room Indoor enclosures are vital to the safety and well-being of the animals at the zoo. ese areas are where the animals retire for the night and are protected from inclement weather, and where zookeepers and veterinarians are able to monitor the animals' health and perform any necessary medical procedures. Keeping these indoor areas clean and sanitary is imperative. Upon arriving at the giraffe exhibit, Puszynski and the team discovered that FRP, or fiberglass panels, were installed on the walls to keep the area clean and sanitized. As part of the care for the animals, the zoo has a strict regimen for clean- ing and sanitizing all exhibit and enclosure areas. e zoo is committed to keeping the enclosures free from microorganisms that might harm the animals, and the fiberglass sheets were glued to the walls to create a smooth surface that was easily FLOOR POLYURETHANES CONCRETE ENVELOPE