Canadian Finishing & Coatings Manufacturing - July/August '24 - 19

PAINT AND COATINGS MANUFACTURING: WOOD PAINTS, PRIMERS, AND STAINS
Expert Q&A
I
BY NOELLE STAPINSKY
n a world where we're surrounded and often
overwhelmed by a heavy digitization, the look and feel
of wood remains a popular choice as a natural reminder
of reality. Coating developers are creating formulas to
make metal, composites and even plastics take on a wood-like
finish. But, of course, wood substrates still reign supreme. And
natural finishes, muted calming hues, robust performance,
and sustainability are the focus in today's wood finish trends.
CFCM engaged Sarah Skinner, product marketing director
at AkzoNobel to expand on recent developments in wood
coatings.
What are the current trends for wood
coatings, primers, and stains?
Sarah Skinner (SS): The current trends in wood coatings
development reflect a careful consideration of the latest
design preferences. AkzoNobel's technical service and global
colour and design teams collaborate closely to ensure that the
finishes are not only robust, but also suitable for industrial
applications worldwide.
In response to contemporary influences and high-end
design preferences, there's an acknowledgment of the need
for belonging and reassurance in the face of an uncertain
world. People are seeking environments that exude calmness
while providing moments of joy in their everyday experiences.
AkzoNobel's Colour of the Year for 2024, Sweet Embrace,
embodies these sentiments. This welcoming pastel pink,
inspired by soft feathers and evening clouds, aims to evoke
feelings of peace, comfort, reassurance, and lightness.
Furthermore, four distinct colour palettes have been
created around the Colour of the Year, influencing home
decor elements such as furniture, flooring, cabinetry and
building products in the coming year:
* Transitional: A warm colour story that combines shades of
stone, soil, and clay
* Cottage: A calm colour that brings together soft greens and
blues reminiscent of woods and the sea
* Contemporary: An uplifting colour featuring dreamy
lilacs, fluid greys and modern yellows
These trends reflect a nuanced understanding of the
evolving preferences in colour, texture and finish, catering to
a desire for both tranquility and moments of delight in living
spaces.
What types of finishes are in demand?
Customer demands and requirements have continued to
evolve, with a consistent focus on key areas. Subjects such
as indoor air quality, formaldehyde-free products, fire
retardants, UV curing systems, and anti-bacteria/anti-virus
solutions remain important. Waterborne technology, both
in 1K and 2K forms, and carbon footprint reduction are
also increasingly significant. The substantial investment in
research and development (R&D) reflect our commitment to
meet changing customer needs.
Lately we've seen a notable increase in the adoption of
waterborne technology. Additionally, sustainable solutions,
including biobased/renewable products, low-energy curing
solutions, and products with extended durability, have
become more important. The emphasis on these technologies
underscores a commitment to future-proof solutions, and
substantial R&D investments continue in these areas.
The company aims to be a genuine partner for customers,
supporting them in their sustainability journey and providing
innovative solutions aligned with evolving industry needs.
In terms of aesthetics, dead flat, low gloss and naturaltouch
finishes are in high demand. Our latest Selva Pro
Acrilico Clear Topcoat Naturale is a modern dead flat finish
inspired by the latest trends, and highly sought-after by
customers. Suitable for multiple uses including kitchens,
paneling, and furniture, this finish offers a natural, organic
yet contemporary look in keeping with the very latest design
schemes for a serene unobtrusive touch of luxury.
Our latest Selva Pro Acrilico Clear Topcoat
Naturale is a modern dead flat finish inspired
by the latest trends, and highly sought-after by
customers. Suitable for multiple uses including
kitchens, paneling, and furniture, this finish
offers a natural, organic yet contemporary look in
keeping with the very latest design schemes for a
serene unobtrusive touch of luxury.
July/August 2024
19
Canadian Finishing & Coatings Manufacturing - July/August '24

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