ELGIN, IL - Following an extensive strategic study for its resins businesses, DSM announced that it will expand its innovation activities in the area of formulated coatings and composites with the formation of a DSM Functional Materials Business Unit. The activities of its current DSM Desotech business unit will be integrated into this new structure.

DSM Desotech develops high-performance, UV-curable materials including the brands DeSolite® optical fiber coatings and Cablelite® inks for the telecommunication industry, and Somos® stereolithography additive fabrication materials. In 2008, this UV-curable portfolio was expanded to include UVolve® instant floor coatings and UVaCorr® anti-corrosion coatings for tube and pipe.

DSM Functional Materials will focus on market trends pointing toward more environmentally friendly and lighter-weight materials. It will continue its leadership in UV-curable materials with a strong focus on Asia and other high-growth economies, while also targeting additional high-growth areas for its innovation efforts, including functional coatings and materials for solar applications, functional wood coatings, and composite materials.