AkzoNobel is upgrading its research hub in Houston, Texas, to support its protective coatings, marine coatings and specialty coatings businesses.
The expansion due for completion in early 2016 “will provide a central, state-of-the-art technical resource for our businesses in the US, creating the critical mass for effective R&D to efficiently support our customers,” said Aidan Mernin, RD&I Director for Protective Coatings at the Dutch company.
Up to 35 laboratory staff will work at the expanded facility, along with 30 skilled technologists. Key capabilities will include a dedicated area for experimental paint making, a modern paint application laboratory and environmentally controlled drying areas for conditioning of test panels.
Enhanced chemical resistance testing will also be available to support AkzoNobel’s Ceilcote and Enviroline linings ranges in North America.
“This investment underlines our focus on technology and product innovation and providing technical support for our customers,” said Mauricio Bannwart, managing director of the protective coatings business.
The Texas hub will be an integral part of the company’s global RD&I function and will directly contribute to its overall growth plans, Bannwart added.