After receiving a $1.5 million Indiana 21st Century Research and Technology Fund grant last week, First Precision LLC said that it plans to open a production plant in Gary, IN, for a new powder coating formula called PowderCoil. The coating is applied to metal coils like the ones used in steel and automotive industries; however, the powder coating is environmentally friendly. First Precision's new method of applying the coating is also said to be faster than other technologies.

The business began in the Purdue Technology Center of Northwest Indiana, based in Merrillville. First Precision is expected to hire a dozen people its first year and about 40 its next year.

For more information, visitwww.powdercoil.com.