YPSILANTI, MI – The Polymers & Coatings Technology program in the GameAbove College of Engineering and Technology at Eastern Michigan University (EMU) has entered a strategic partnership with GDB International Inc., a multinational conglomerate and leader in the paint recycling industry that specializes in producing a diverse range of recycled paints.

As part of this partnership, GDB International Inc. established the GDB International Expendable Scholarship in Polymers and Coating, a $10K scholarship for polymers and coatings students. GDB has also committed to accepting two polymers and coatings graduate students for a summer internship starting this year. Additionally, joint research programs at the Coatings Research Institute are underway.

“I am very excited about this partnership as the GDB scholarship will support students in their experimental research that will develop advanced solutions for sustainable recycling of a wide variety of paints and coatings,” said Vijay Mannari, Distinguished Professor of polymers and coatings technology and Director for the Coatings Research Institute at EMU, who was instrumental in cementing this partnership. “The summer internship will provide a unique and unparalleled learning experience to our students in exploring emerging paint recycling processes.” 

Mannari said that his visit to GDB operations in the summer of 2021 was beneficial in understanding technical issues associated with the paint recycling industry. “EMU Coatings Research Institute is in an excellent position to leverage its strength and develop solutions by joint research projects with GDB under this partnership,” Mannari added.

GDB International’s mission is to reduce the carbon footprint of paints and coating products and preserve our land and water resources by developing responsible and sustainable recycling solutions. “We strive to constantly innovate by investing in the paint recycling industry, tirelessly paving the way for a leaner, cleaner, and greener paint industry worldwide,” said Sanjeev Bagaria, CEO of GDB International Inc. “Radical ideas have always been encouraged at GDB, giving the students a chance to put their theories to practice. By bringing young, enthusiastic, and passionate talent on board, we are not only fueling our innovation with newer, contemporary ideas but are giving the youth a chance to invest in and better their future.”

“Being a founding and the presiding member of the IPRA, this partnership shall pave the way for numerous collaborative projects in the future, providing students with a more holistic learning experience. We look forward to bringing this fresh wave of energy to our team of experienced recyclers,” Bagaria added.