Radiation-Cured Coatings – Regulations and Performance Expectations Drive Advances

By Cynthia Challener

Developers of raw materials used in the formulation of radiation­ cured coatings and manufacturers of UV-, EB-, and recently, LED-cured coatings are faced with numerous challenges that range from increas­ing regulatory requirements to growing expectations for more sus­tainable coatings. At the same time, there are significant cost pressures driving the introduction of products designed to provide maximum value in use. Collaboration across the supply chain is becoming increasingly critical for effective and efficient de­velopment of innovative technologies that address real customer and market needs.

The global market for radiation-cured products in 2012, including coatings, inks, and adhesives, is estimated by market research firm Transparency Market Research to be $4.93 billion-and growing at a compound annual rate of 7%, to reach $7.93 billion in 2019. Radiation-cured coatings accounted for nearly 80% of the volume, according to the research firm, while on a regional basis, Asia Pacific accounted for approximately 40% of total value, followed by Europe and then North America.