AkzoNobel boosts innovation with new Dutch research labs
AkzoNobel’s €8 million investment in new R&D facilities aims to advance sustainable coating technologies and halve carbon emissions by 2030.
Expanding Horizons in Sustainable Coatings
AkzoNobel, the global leader in paints and coatings, is ushering in a new era of innovation with the construction of two state-of-the-art research laboratories at its Sassenheim site in the Netherlands[1]. This €8 million expansion is not just a testament to the company’s commitment to innovation, but also a clear stride towards its ambitious sustainability goals. The new facilities will concentrate on powder coating technologies and resin development, two critical areas with the potential to significantly reduce environmental impact.
Powder Coatings: A Sustainable Focus
The newly planned Powder Coatings lab will serve as a hub for fundamental research, aiming to pioneer advancements with substantial sustainable benefits[2]. Powder coatings are known for their environmental advantages, including the absence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and the potential for reduced energy consumption during application. AkzoNobel’s Chief Technology Officer, Roger Jakeman, emphasizes that this development will unlock new customer and application opportunities, fostering solutions that align with the company’s vision of cutting carbon emissions across the value chain[3].
Polymer Lab Paves the Way for Carbon Reduction
Alongside the powder technology center, the opening of the new polymer lab marks a significant advancement for AkzoNobel’s research capabilities. Hosting 15 scientists, the lab is set to innovate in the realm of sustainable polymer technologies, contributing to the company’s goal to reduce carbon emissions by 50% by the year 2030[4]. Resins play a crucial role in coatings, and this lab’s focus on developing more sustainable variants is poised to enhance AkzoNobel’s industry-leading expertise and product performance[2].
A Commitment Recognized by Local Leadership
The municipality of Teylingen, home to the Sassenheim site, has shown immense support for AkzoNobel’s initiative. Mayor Carla Breuer expressed pride in the company’s investment, underlining its dedication to sustainable product development within the region and across the Netherlands[4]. This local endorsement emphasizes the broader impact of AkzoNobel’s innovation, not only in terms of environmental benefits but also in contributing to regional economic and technological growth.
Conclusion: Setting a Global Standard for Sustainability
AkzoNobel’s expansion into new research facilities exemplifies the company’s broader strategy to lead the industry in sustainable innovation. With over 3,000 R&D professionals worldwide and more than €1.25 billion invested in R&D over the past five years, AkzoNobel’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions and deliver sustainable solutions are setting a global standard. The investment in the Sassenheim site, in particular, aligns with the company’s commitment to halve carbon emissions by 2030 and become carbon neutral by 2050, demonstrating a powerful fusion of innovation and responsibility[5].