07.07.17
AkzoNobel has completed the $3.5 million (€2.6 million) expansion of its US research and development facilities in Houston, Texas.
Implemented in phases over a three-year period, the investment in the site – which employs around 40 scientists – will support the company’s Protective Coatings, Marine Coatings and Specialty Coatings businesses.
As part of AkzoNobel’s ongoing investments in its global RD&I activities, the Houston upgrade follows an investment of $15.5 million (€12.6 million) in a research and innovation hub in Felling, UK, announced earlier this year.
“Our new state-of-the-art research and development facilities in Houston enhance our unique capability of developing and delivering product innovations that meet the specific performance requirements of our North American customers, while providing a more rewarding work environment for our employees,” said Steve Feldman, Vice President for Protective Coatings North America.
Added Chuck Hampton, Business Director of AkzoNobel’s North America Marine Coatings business: “I am delighted that the investment and upgrade at our Houston site is now complete. The new facility provides testing and application capabilities second to none, and underscores our commitment to advanced technology innovations and superior technical support.”
Additional capabilities at the facility include a dedicated area for experimental paint making, a modern paint application laboratory and environmentally controlled drying areas for conditioning of test panels. Enhanced chemical resistance testing equipment is also available to support the Ceilcote and Enviroline lining ranges in North America.
Implemented in phases over a three-year period, the investment in the site – which employs around 40 scientists – will support the company’s Protective Coatings, Marine Coatings and Specialty Coatings businesses.
As part of AkzoNobel’s ongoing investments in its global RD&I activities, the Houston upgrade follows an investment of $15.5 million (€12.6 million) in a research and innovation hub in Felling, UK, announced earlier this year.
“Our new state-of-the-art research and development facilities in Houston enhance our unique capability of developing and delivering product innovations that meet the specific performance requirements of our North American customers, while providing a more rewarding work environment for our employees,” said Steve Feldman, Vice President for Protective Coatings North America.
Added Chuck Hampton, Business Director of AkzoNobel’s North America Marine Coatings business: “I am delighted that the investment and upgrade at our Houston site is now complete. The new facility provides testing and application capabilities second to none, and underscores our commitment to advanced technology innovations and superior technical support.”
Additional capabilities at the facility include a dedicated area for experimental paint making, a modern paint application laboratory and environmentally controlled drying areas for conditioning of test panels. Enhanced chemical resistance testing equipment is also available to support the Ceilcote and Enviroline lining ranges in North America.
