MOSCOW (MRC) -- The global coatings market is rapidly changing with increasing demands for new technologies that offer additional functionalities and improved sustainability. Henkel Adhesive Technologies is aiming to drive the transition as first mover and to meet future customer requirements at an early stage. DropWise's innovation will enable a durable polymer surface with unique properties that offers improved heat transfer, said the producer on its site.
The DropWise application process is based on an initiated chemical vapor deposition (iCVD) technique which allows the coating to be applied for OEM or retrofit applications. Using just a very small amount of polymer precursors, a chemical reaction is carried out that covalently grafts an ultra-thin polymer film to any metal surface, such as stainless steel, titanium, copper, aluminum, and even polymers and ceramics.
"We are very excited to be partnering with a global leader in metal surface treatment," says Adam Paxson, CEO of DropWise. "Henkel’s deep technical expertise and strong track record of bringing new innovations to their customers will enable us to fast-track commercialization in key market areas." DropWise is commercializing the technology out of two laboratories at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) which has a strong track record of bringing material science-based innovation to the market. Henkel Adhesive Technologies is closely working with MIT to directly interact with start-ups and entrepreneurs.
As part of its innovation strategy, the Henkel business unit is continuously strengthening its technical scouting and engagement with promising start-up companies. The most recent result is the signing of a joint development agreement with US-based DropWise Technologies Corp. The start-up company has developed technology, intellectual property and lab-scale manufacturing know how for a novel method of hydrophobic coating applications. The partnership will enable Henkel further expanding its leading position in the global surface treatment business and driving growth with new applications.
"Collaborating with promising start-ups that provide access to cutting-edge future technologies is an integral part of our innovation strategy", explains Mike Olosky, Corporate Senior Vice President and Global Head of Innovation & New Business Development, Henkel Adhesive Technologies. "Together with DropWise we can combine their unique technologies with our global market access and know-how in coatings to generate profitable growth for both partners in the future."
As MRC wrote before, in June 2015, Henkel Russia opened a new dry building mixes plant in the Novosibirsk region. The new production site reportedly places the company closer to customers in the Siberian and Far East regions of Russia. The new site is Henkel’s ninth and Henkel Bautechnik’s (part of Henkel Adhesive Technologies) fifth production facility in Russia. More than 120 new jobs will reportedly be created at the plant, which will produce dry mortar mixes products under the Ceresit and Thomsit brands.
Henkel operates in three business units, including laundry and home care, beauty care and adhesive technologies.
MRC