EMD Performance Materials Corp. officially opened its new Surface Solutions laboratories in Philadelphia’s Navy Yard.
 
The company’s global applications network produces prototypes and characterizes surfaces containing effect pigments and additives for automotive and other coatings.
 
“This substantial investment further solidifies our unyielding commitment to our customers and the segments we serve,” said Luiz Vieira, president and managing director of EMD Performance Materials. “Our new application labs in Philadelphia will enable even closer collaboration with our customers and provide the ideal environment to further develop tailor-made solutions to achieve our customers’ desired outcome.”
 
The labs’ equipment provides the optimal working space for the development of unique applications in the automotive sector and other industries. New electrostatic coating capabilities, for example, directly support OEM paint manufactures allowing for the reproduction of coatings industry production line manufacturing processes. In addition to that, a dedicated “clean” spray booth for coating parts in pristine environments allows the production of finished coated parts with enhanced surface protection features. The company’s polysilazane product range such as Durazane enhances surfaces with scratch protection, corrosion resistance, or high-temperature durability.
 
Added capabilities in support of the Thermaval line of products enable EMD Performance Materials to work with high temperature and ceramic applications, extending the range of products that can incorporate effect pigments. Moreover, food applications can now also be explored: the labs have been upgraded to create eye-catching, unique effects on confectionary and other food products such as chewing gums, nutritional supplements, and drinks.