Resin Update

A primary component of any successful coating, resins have advanced to where, generally speaking, wholly new technologies are not being introduced into the market. Rather, the majority of technical advancements being made at this time are occurring within existing technologies such as radiation-cure and self-crosslinking systems.

This is not to say, however, that the market is stagnant. In fact, trends currently sparking both conversation and activity include pricing pressures, resins and coating industry consolidation, existing and impending environmental regulations, as well as the slowing of the general economy. With all this happening at once, resins suppliers need to be even more focused to remain leaders.

"Line extensions, incremental improvements and broader acceptance of existing technologies has occurred in the past few years," said Greg Ross, industry manager at Johnson Polymer. "Resins are a fairly mature market as far as technology is concerned. But at the same time, the performance of the market is driven by a variety of factors and you still have to work hard to stay on top."