The coatings industry, as with most industries today, is continually challenged by many influencing drivers to change, modify and satisfy the continually evolving environment in which we live. Whether the change is driven by environmental requirements, performance, quality, or lower cost, we know one thing for certain - these changes will continue, and only those who are innovative will survive. Of course these challenges always have a “trickle down” effect, and raw material suppliers are not only impacted, but are expected to anticipate future needs, supplying new products well in advance of market requirements. The aluminum pigment industry recognizes many of these challenges and has responded very favorably in providing new products to support the changing face of the coatings industry.
Probably the most critical challenge for our industry has been the need to meet environmental regulations. Almost considered a survival need, many research hours and dollars have been spent in an effort to develop new and improved products to address local, regional and global needs.