With its proven UV‑curable resin and powder resin offerings, Arkema has two key advantages in offering “zero solvent” alternatives on the coating market, covering a wide range of applications.
UV resins: saving time and space
Floors and furniture, automotive parts, packaging for cosmetics, modern PVC flooring, consumer electronics: the specifications for coating (varnishes, paints and lacquers) need to be highly resistant and offer a high‑end finish. For all of these applications, Sartomer® UV resins are an established solution of choice, formulated and applied by means of a completely volatile organic compound‑free process. These resins dry instantly under UV light (compared to several hours for more conventional coatings), resulting in significant savings in time, energy and space: a line of paint 100 meters long can be replaced by a machine a few meters long. A new technology for which Arkema is a global leader, with more than 300 products in its portfolio, truly functional “bricks” that enable manufacturers to meet their customers’ expectations.
Powder resins: less is more
At the same time, in its range of Reafree® polyester powder resins, Arkema has another “zero solvent” solution that has been adopted by an increasing number of customers in the industrial coating sector. This technology does not require diluents for its application and therefore does not generate atmospheric emissions. In addition, it offers exceptional performance in terms of durability: with more than 90 products, the Reafree® range is used in many applications ranging from household appliances, such as refrigerators and washing machines, to metal garden benches and a wide range of marine and industrial equipments.
Arkema is investing in R&D to develop these technologies of the future, as explained by Chris Miller, Head of R&D for the Coating Resins business unit: “Our global network of dedicated laboratories enables us to develop new solutions for innovative formulations that are less energy intensive. They provide ‘super‑durability’ and can help companies across the value chain improve overall performance.”
