AkzoNobel builds Dutch research labs for product development
AkzoNobel builds two new research labs, a technology center and a polymer lab, at its Sassenheim site in the Netherlands, the company’s largest global R&D center, to foster its pioneering product development.
A ceremony was held inside the building that will become the new powder technology center.
The total investment in the Sassenheim site amounts to around EUR 8 million. AkzoNobel is about to start on building a technology center for Powder Coatings, while a new polymer lab has just opened which will develop innovative resin technologies.
The new Powder Coating lab allows AkzoNobel to carry out the fundamental research for innovating more sustainable products to the market. For the recently opened polymer lab, which is part of the company’s Research organization, it will accommodate 15 scientists. It will mainly focus on developing more sustainable polymer technologies and new coatings.
“The performance of a paint or coating is largely defined by the design of the resins used. They’re a vital ingredient in the manufacturing process. The new lab will therefore play an important role in boosting our capabilities and strengthen our industry-leading expertise,” explained Roger Jakeman, Chief Technology Officer.
AkzoNobel employs around 3,000 R&D professionals worldwide in 70 laboratories, with more than EUR 1.25 billion having been spent on research and development over the last five years.
