While some powder coatings have provided what is commercially known as a “reflective” surface, this usually has meant simply a high gloss level. This type of reflection, where light is “scattered” or diffused, is not retro-reflection. A new powder coating process can enhance corrosion protection and nighttime safety by achieving true retro-reflectivity.
Fluorine-based coatings are used extensively for surface protection due to their water and oil repellency, weatherability, chemical resistance, stain repellency and durability. Silicone-based chemistries, which offer fast, low-temperature curing, have been investigated for numerous applications, especially on plastic substrates, for their potential to increase productivity and energy savings. Recently, a silicone-cure fluoropolymer coating has been developed that combines the beneficial attributes of both technologies.
Speed is critical in any industry. In finishing operations, line speed dictates process efficiency, and the amount of time required for curing largely dictates line speed. The faster the curing process, the greater the throughput and the higher the profits. A new technology based on near-infrared (NIR) thermal processing is improving the field of surface treatment by substantially reducing curing time. Applying technology that has grown out of the European Space Program’s research, the system provides almost instant curing of waterborne, solventborne and powder coatings.
Series DX-8000 falling dart impact testers from Paul N. Gardner Co. are stand-alone, non-instrumented testers designed for measuring the impact resistance of film, sheet and laminated materials.
Rohm and Haas has launched TianBaTM 2000, a new generation flexible acrylic copolymer with broad applicability for use in cement-based and non-cement-based waterproof coatings, flexible plastering mortar for thermal insulation systems, external flexible putties, ceramic tile adhesives, and mortar repair.
Dynamix™ Black 30C940 from The Shepherd Color Co. is a “stir-in” inorganic color pigment. Part of the Arctic® range for coatings, the product can be used widely in color matches to maximize total solar reflectance (TSR), minimize heat build up and reduce overall energy costs.
The first flight of the Embraer Phenom 100 very light jet marked another Embraer first: The very light executive jet was the Brazilian aircraft manufacturer’s first airplane to use Surface Seal rain-repellent coating by PPG Industries’ aerospace business as the primary windshield rain removal system. The hydrophobic coating sheds rain to enhance visibility for the pilot during precipitation conditions.
International Paint has been selected to deliver high-performance coatings systems in tandem with lining systems from its recently acquired Ceilcote line to help the Indiana-based Alcoa-Warrick Station Power Plant comply with new safety regulations.
Akzo Nobel Car Refinishes (ANCR) has secured a partnership with Great Wall Motor Co. Ltd, a major Chinese car manufacturer. Under the agreement, ANCR will supply Great Wall with car refinishes products on a worldwide basis.