Why Asian Imported Solid Surface Bathtubs Often Smell When Filled With Hot Water?

March 02, 2020

Author:

We have heard this question repeatedly – “will your bathtub smell when filled with hot water” or “why my last tub was off-gassing when full”.

The short answer to this question is that a lot brands manufacture their solid surface bathtubs and washbasins in countries with very little or no quality control. They are shipped uncured to shorten the production time or their chemical formulation is deficient because the chemical reaction continues slowly over a prolonged period of time, often well after their importation to the United States making any visual quality inspection useless. Some of these factories operate as sweatshops or even use forced prison labor which means that there is little proper chemistry and quality assurance processes.

Solid surface or so-called resin bathtubs and washbasins are composed of polyester or acrylic resin (aka polymer) and alumina trihydrate (ATH) filler. Slow ongoing poly-condensation or curing chemical reaction will continue inside the polymer volume every time when the bathtub or washbasin is warmed to ~+40C or higher (104F or above), which will give off odors ranging from the sweet, fruity smell of acrylic to an odor similar to the preserving fluid formaldehyde.

This process is called off-gassing.

Aquatica AquateX™ solid surface tubs are not mass manufactured products and undergo lengthily 8 hours long curing process inside our purpose-built curing oven.

What Is AquateX™?

AquateX™ is a brand of solid surface material created by Aquatica, specifically for casting bathtubs and washbasins. Its primary use is bathroom applications though it has many other decorative applications like in lighting fixtures, furniture, and medical facilities. It is composed of acrylic modified polyester resin and alumina trihydrate (ATH), a material derived from bauxite mineral.

AquateX ™ is an inert, hypoallergenic, non-toxic, 100% recyclable, and fire-resistant material that emits water upon exposure to fire. It has excellent resistance to UV radiation, is dense/non-porous, hygienic, durable, and is pleasant to touch due to its velvety texture.

AquateX™ is also 100% restorable with simple abrasive detergent and sponge, removing even cigarette burns. Frequent cleaning of AquateX™ will ensure the preservation of the original beauty of your AquateX™ bathtub and prevents wear and tear signs that might occur with time.

Is AquateX™ Toxic?

The components of AquateX™ surfaces are not considered chemical irritants and are rated very low to slightly toxic by inhalation or ingestion. The elements of AquateX™ are bound into the final product, so there is no exposure to the original raw materials from touching or handling bathtubs or washbasins.

Will My Aquatica Bathtub Off Gas?

AquateX™ solid surface bathtubs and washbasins do not off gas at temperatures compatible with life. When exposed to extreme heat or open fire, some amount of hazardous gases might be released.

Practical suggestions,

Product highlights,

Product reviews,

Stone bathtubs