Regulation and innovation are not words we generally associate with one another, especially when considering the interaction between governmental agencies and the coatings industry. And there is always robust debate about whether regulatory organizations are regulating too much or too little, depending on one’s point of view.1 However, it is difficult to argue that regulatory changes and trends do not significantly influence both the products developed and a great deal of innovation in coatings formulations and their applications. When confronted with the challenges that regulatory changes present, the English proverb “necessity is the mother of invention” certainly seems appropriate.2
This article provides a review of some of the most relevant regulatory changes and trends in the silicone industry, demonstrating how research and development (R&D) efforts have risen to the challenges that these new regulatory demands have presented. Improvements and solutions that positively impact human and environmental health and safety have clearly been driven by regulatory mandates, and will undoubtedly continue to influence R&D and innovation into the future.