Advancements in pigment technologies enable architectural paint formulators to have the ability to provide a broader range of coatings that offer market-driven functionality without sacrificing performance. Paints that provide enhanced characteristics such as lower VOCs or heat-management capability, also known as near-infrared (NIR) reflective properties, can help formulators differentiate. However, selecting the right supplier offering innovative pigment technologies is critical in staying ahead of market dynamics and regulatory requirements. This article highlights the science behind innovative and sustainable performance-enhancing pigment technologies and elaborates on how these technologies deliver performance and ‘smart’ functionality. This, in turn, helps formulators further exploit unrealized market opportunities as well as meet regulatory mandates.
With a global trend toward lower VOCs and emissions, there has been a steadfast focus to reduce VOCs in architectural paints through the implementation of various environmental regulations and labeling programs (Figure 1). Rapidly changing regulations and certification requirements cause formulators to look to raw material suppliers to remain current and innovative for the best response to these changes. Further, there is a rising demand from the marketplace for coatings products with these environmental attributes, as well as enhanced coloristics, durability (i.e., fade and stain resistance) and ease-of-use.