Functional coatings: Potential for all industry sectors

What is R&D focusing on in raw materials for functional coatings?

Arno Schut: It is all about nanomaterials. The idea is to take the functional element of a substance and emphasise its special property. With traditional chemistry, the practice is to include significant quantities of a specific substance to get enhanced properties, which perhaps improved weatherability, mechanical resistance or hydrophobicity.

However, using nanotechnology, the “ideal” particle or resin is created by synthesis. In sol-gel-technology, for example, molecular building blocks are used to develop properties to the maximum possible. This enables us to create nanostructures where part of the structure is designed for maximum adhesion to the substrate, while the “top-facing side” provides the required functionalisation, such as, superhydrophobicity or oleophobicity. The molecular design makes it possible to use functional chemistry extremely efficiently.

The same model can be used to come to covalently bound anti-corrosion primers, super-hard topcoats, or self-cleaning surfaces.

What is the current market for functional coatings?

Arno Schut, innovation manager, Axcentive

Schut: There is a lot of interest coming from industry. We really see OEMs, parts and equipment manufacturers look for esteemed, differentiated products with, for example, easy-to-clean, superhydrophobic or superhydrophilic properties. They come to us because we offer such technology.

Axcentive is often working closely with formulators to adapt solutions to specific end markets. The interest is great and what we offer is, in many cases, new to our customer base. With nano sol-gel technology, the raw material resources required are minimal; whereas many easy-to-clean and self-clean applications offer lower maintenance, less water and energy consumption for our clients or end-users. With this strategy of doing more with less, we join both the green mega-trend, lowering the carbon footprint, and also match the demand for more convenience.

In which application fields do you see the biggest potential for functional coatings?

Schut: With an estimated market size of 5 billion and a growth rate of 10 percent year on year, the outlook for the nano coatings market is very promising. Moreover, this market is looking for innovative products, which makes discussions highly stimulating. The interest is coming from all sectors of the coatings industry, including automotive, construction, marine, protective, aviation, and plastic coatings.

Event tip

The European Coatings Technology Forum Functional Coatings in December in Berlin looks at the latest developments in the diverse field of functional coatings. The conference will take place with detailed hygiene and safety measures. Plus, a live webstream is offered.