Trends and Challenges in Architectural Coatings

10th February 2018

Dr. K.S.Murthy, Pidilite Industries Ltd writes on the above conference organised by Society for Industrial Chemistry in conjunction with Department of Polymer and Surface Engineering on 10th February 2018 at K.Venkataraman Auditorium.

Architects, paint scientists and technologists spoke about architectural coatings with reference to green buildings, construction chemicals, painting in high rise buildings etc. A souvenir was released, and proceedings comprised 11 lectures and a panel discussion.

Dr.A.B.Samui, convenor: Architectural coatings and paints cover areas that effect appearance, aesthetics, protective performance, flare etc.

Dr.S.K.Kulshreshta, President: Paints are combination of pigments, binder, additives and solvents in emulsion which spread on surface and on drying become coating. Some paints are used in automotive sector for vehicles changing colour and photo luminescent paints for marking on roads.

Chief Guest:

Mr.Mahesh G Mehrotra, Vice President, Kansai Nerolac: Per capita consumption of 0.5 kg has risen to 2.5 kg (China 6 kgs and USA 25 kgs) and growing in double digit (2 times GDP). Paint is complimentary industry and is dependent on technology changes that happen in other industries like automotive industry. In architectural coatings, the method of construction is changing, and we are entering exponential age. High rise buildings cannot be repainted and pose a challenge for exterior.

· Ms.Ar.Archana Salil, Areana

Consultants spoke about art and architecture. Architect makes work face beautifulwith innovations in colours which are creative expressions of an artist. With the joy of using colour in paint and coatings, architecture future is extensive. Conversion from oil base to water base, VOC reduction, and emulsions of paints improve paint properties with dirt resistance due to chemists, formulators and end users. As consumer tastes and regulatory rules change, and new materials become available, paint formulators would be more creative in new products.

· Keynote address:

 Mr.Dilip Raghavan,

Editor Colour Publications spoke about “Architectural Coatings in India – Mega Trends.”

Global coatings industry is valued at $120 million of which 50% is decorative coatings. China share is 60% while India is 15%. Water-based coatings segment is 65% and rest is solvent based. GDP growth (7-8%) changes with legislation and economy. Coatings industry is 50,000 Cr and annual growth is 14%. Per capita consumption is about 3.3 kgs. Architectural coatings (45% water-based) segment in terms of products are emulsions (65%), acrylics, copolymers and styrene-acrylics. Volume growth is not accompanied by value growth. The cost of paint is negligible, but the value delivered is significant. GST capitalisation is classed in highest category of taxation. Collaboration between institutes and industry is necessary to exploit potential. Industry is dependent on application segment (paint and coating skill sector).

Opportunities: Exterior paints for high rise buildings, labour costs and demanding customers. Interiors with smart and functional coatings improve air quality. Paint as nation building industry contributes to automotive, construction and infrastructure development for improving assets.

Mega trends: Water-based technologies; integration of coatings and water proofing; Consolidation and strategic alliances for size of the industry. Organised retail and architectural coatings interface between industry and the user. Notwithstanding the quality of paint and brand, it is right cost, right quality at the right time and right convenience that is important.