AkzoNobel is making a major contribution to China’s increased focus on developing a greener and safer water supply system.

Led by the China Building Metal Structure Association, the company was one of only two coatings suppliers involved in devising a new group standard for the application of powder coatings in drinking water pipelines and valves.

AkzoNobel’s Powder Coatings business has a wealth of global experience in water pipeline projects, including supplying Resicoat products for the Pearl River Delta water resource allocation project — the largest investment in a water diversion project in the history of Guangdong Province.

“We’re pleased to join forces with AkzoNobel to enhance quality control for valve anti-corrosion coatings, raise industry standards and drive sustainable development and high-quality growth in the water supply and distribution sector,” said Qin Yongxin, deputy secretary-general of the China Building Metal Structure Association. “This will help establish a robust technical foundation for urban water supply safety.”

Jeff Jirak, director of the company’s Powder Coatings business, added: “Professional-grade coating processes and protective measures are essential to ensure the longevity and stability of water supply systems. Not only do our Resicoat products substantially extend the lifespan of pipes and valves, but they also significantly reduce maintenance costs, while meeting stringent approvals to ensure drinking water quality.”

Water supply pipelines function much like the body's circulatory system, where valves play a critical role in regulating flow, balancing pressure and, when necessary, halting water flow — all of which are vital for maintaining a safe and reliable water supply to urban populations.

“The Pearl River Delta project — which ensured the supply of clean and safe potable water to more than 50 million people — is a prime example of the vital role we can play in driving large-scale and more sustainable solutions for critical infrastructure,” Jirak said.

He explained that the company recently introduced an even more sustainable powder coating, Resicoat R8, which meets rigorous EU standards and is set to launch in China soon. In addition, the Powder Coatings business is researching low-temperature curing products for water valves and will provide customized formulation optimization services, catering to specific customer needs and elevating the safety standards of local water supply systems.

China’s new group standard — called General Technical Conditions for Anti-corrosion Coatings and Performance of Water Supply and Distribution Valves — was developed in collaboration with valve manufacturers, research institutions and epoxy powder coating producers.