Axalta on new coating technology and sustainable innovation

Axalta Coating Systems' Chief Technology Officer, Dr. Barry Snyder, presented at Campus Talk event held at Jiaotong University how Axalta has been developing high-performance sustainable coating solutions. Jiaotong University, one of the top universities in China, serves as venue for Campus Talks, designed to create awareness, educate and update local academic communities on the technologies and business systems that Axalta uses to support its customers.

Dr. Snyder provided an overview of Axalta’s approach and philosophy around coating formulation. He also explained the many benefits that are derived from the use of the company’s coatings. For instance, his presentation delved into the chemistry behind creating durable coatings, such as the need to maintain adhesion between layers to prevent coatings from flaking, gloss retention factors the enable coatings to endure harsh climate conditions, and the need to resist scratches that arise from the wear and tear vehicles experience. His remarks explored the various disciplines of chemistry, material science, and engineering that play a vital role in Axalta’s ability to develop the latest coatings.

The Jiaotong University Campus Talk is the second consecutive annual forum that Axalta has hosted. The presentation followed a celebration to commence construction of Axalta’s new Asia Pacific Technology Center (APTC) that is being built in the Minhang Industrial Development Center in Shanghai. The APTC is part of Axalta’s investment in China to drive Axalta’s leadership in coating technology. Early this year, Axalta opened a facility in Jiading to produce waterborne coatings which have reduced volatile organic compounds (VOCs) to comply with environmental regulations in China and globally.

Axalta companies have been doing business in China since 1984 and in 2016 will celebrate 150 years of experience in the coatings industry. In addition to the new APTC and waterborne coatings plant adjacent to its Jiading plant, Axalta also has a plant in Changchun, six powder coating operations in collaboration with a joint venture partner, four refinish training centers. In Shanghai, it has a Global Color Lab and Asia Pacific Innovation Center to support R&D and its Asia Pacific regional headquarters. Axalta’s multiple resources in China work together to support the sustained, long-term growth of China’s automotive, commercial transportation and industrial sectors that use Axalta coatings.