Editor’s note: This column is a roundup of recent product releases from the coatings and allied industries. To submit a product release for consideration, email publications@paint.org. Please note that all submissions are subject to editorial approval and publication is not guaranteed.
Surface Appearance Measurement
X‑Rite Incorporated and Rhopoint Instruments have introduced Rhopoint PANTORA Aesthetix®, a system for high‑definition surface appearance measurement and 3D material visualization, to support the growing use of digital twins in product development and marketing. The dual HDR camera-based surface characterization system is designed to quantify gloss, haze, roughness, and surface structure at 110 pixels per millimeter. The system integrates Rhopoint’s surface‑measurement technology with X‑Rite’s appearance software and color measurement devices that measure both reflectance and transmission, to digitally capture and communicate the look and feel of paints, coatings, leathers, and plastics.
To learn more, visit xrite.com.
Plasma-Coating Technology
Henniker Plasma has launched CoatX® plasma-coating technology. Designed to deliver permanent, nano-scale functional coatings, CoatX® uses controlled plasma-assisted polymerization which, according to the company, results in ultra-thin, permanently bonded coatings that are compatible with polymers, metals, glass, textiles, and 3D materials.
For more information, visit plasmatreatment.co.uk.
Fire Protection Coatings
PPG has introduced PPG STEELGUARD® 652, a high-performance, water-based intumescent fire protection coating for interior structural steelwork. According to PPG, the cellulosic passive fire protection (PFP) coating is engineered to deliver up to two hours of fire protection and is UL 263 certified. Available in North America, the coating’s low-VOC emissions allow for efficient trade stacking at complex construction sites.
Additional details are available at ppgpmc.com.
Texture Coatings for Non-Painted Plastics
PPG’s SEM® Products business, in collaboration with 4Plastic, has unveiled a new generation of texture coatings engineered specifically for the repair of non-painted, textured plastic components. The range of coatings, available across U.S. and Canadian markets, is formulated to replicate the most common OEM textures. According to internal testing reported by the companies, the texture system demonstrates fast application, environmental resistance, and the ability to withstand real-world wear without damage or color transfer.
For more information, visit semproducts.com/products/4plastic.
Aluminum Pigments for Powder Coatings
ECKART has introduced STANDART® PCS HD non-leafing aluminum pigments for powder coatings. Based on Silver Dollar technology and intended for applications such as furniture, household appliances, and other high-quality surfaces, the pigments provide strong coverage and a bright metallic appearance. According to ECKART, pigment usage can be reduced by up to 30% while maintaining performance and consistent processing characteristics. The series includes two options—coarse and fine—to accommodate different coverage and visual effect requirements.
For details, visit eckart.net.