Akzo Nobel invests in Dutch research labs to continue innovating with impact
Two new research labs are being built by Akzo Nobel at its Sassenheim site in the Netherlands to further propel the company’s pioneering product development.
Construction of a powder coatings technology centre will begin shortly, while a new polymer laboratory has been opened to develop innovative resin technologies for all of the company’s businesses.
The total investment in the Sassenheim site – Akzo Nobel’s largest global R&D centre – amounts to around EUR 8 million. The facility already houses the largest research and development teams in Europe for the company’s Decorative Paint and Automotive and Speciality Coatings businesses. The two new laboratories will help the company to build on its global reputation as a pioneer in product development to offer creative solutions to customers.
Sustainable polymer technologies and new coatings
“The establishment of the new powder coatings laboratory will enable us to conduct the fundamental research we need to continue to bring innovative and sustainable products to market,” explains Roger Jakeman, Akzo Nobel’s Chief Technology Officer.
“By developing new technologies for the future, we will open up more customer and application opportunities while supporting multiple options, including low burnout curing. This will further enhance our ability to reduce carbon emissions throughout the value chain.”
The recently opened polymer laboratory – part of the company’s research organisation – will house 15 scientists. It will focus primarily on developing more sustainable polymer technologies and new coatings to support Akzo Nobel’s goal of halving carbon emissions across the value chain by 2030.
€1.25 billion on research and development
“The performance of a paint or coating is largely determined by the design of the resins used,” Jakeman continues. “They are an essential part of the manufacturing process. The new laboratory will therefore play an important role in enhancing our capabilities and strengthening our industry-leading expertise.”
Carla Breuer, Mayor of Teylingen, the municipality in which Sassenheim is located, adds: “Akzo Nobel’s investment in these two new research laboratories underlines the company’s commitment to sustainable product development in our region and in the Netherlands. We are proud to see this initiative taking shape in our community.”
Akzo Nobel employs around 3,000 R&D professionals in 70 laboratories worldwide and has spent more than €1.25 billion on research and development in the last five years.
