The powder coatings market has grown considerably over the last 20 years. The current market is reported to be in excess
of 1.76 billion pounds. Figure 1 shows that Europe still has the lion's share with about 45%, while the North American and
Asian markets continue to grow. Although metallic coatings represent a small percentage of this total, they play a significant part
in providing enhanced color opportunities in the marketplace.
Benda-Lutz has been manufacturing metallic pigments, including aluminum, gold bronze and zinc products, since 1910.
The company is into its third decade of providing a global bonding capability. Benda-Lutz currently sells metallic pigments into
applications including printing inks and coatings. The typical markets for metallic powder coatings include automotive
components, architectural aluminum, office furniture, and lawn and garden applications. One reason that powder coating has
proved so popular over the last 10 years is its lack of affect on the environment. Compared with liquid paint, it has a nearly
perfect environmental profile with virtually zero VOCs, and no paint sludge residue, effluent disposal or noxious odors. The fact
that powder coating can be reclaimed thus reducing the waste has also been significant in making powder coatings a viable
alternative to existing technologies. However, collecting and re-using the overspray has caused specific problems with regard to
metallic finishes.