Coatings World - September 2008

Biocides, Fungicides
and Algaecides Update
The movement to low- and zero-VOC coatings has accelerated
the conversion to a new generation of biocide products.

BY KERRY PIANOFORTE
ASSOCIATE EDITOR

The continued demand for coatings systems with low- and zero-VOC content has given biocide manufacturers the opportunity to provide new products and services.

“The movement to low- and zero-VOC coatings has accelerated the conversion to a new generation of biocide products,” said Donald A. Shaw, vice president development, Troy Corp. “As coating manufacturers develop products with new polymer systems, biocide manufacturers must adapt their offerings. There are higher solids content biocides in

response to the need for low- and zero-VOC, active ingredients formulated in technologically advanced products. As a side effect, the reduction of VOCs creates an increased requirement for wet state preservation. This coupled with the trend away from formaldehyde containing biocides creates an opportunity for new product offerings and value-added services.”

“The need for low- and zero-VOC coatings has compelled biocide producers and suppliers not only to develop new biocidal products with low- and zero-VOC content but also to reformu-

Photo: Troy Corp.

As coatings manufacturers develop products with new polymer systems, biocide manufacturers must adapt their offerings.

late existing biocidal products to ensure low- and -zero-VOC content,” said William Woods, marketing manager, industrial biocide, International Specialty Products (ISP). “In both cases, the overriding challenge is to ensure effective biocidal performance as well as environmental friendliness.”

There is low demand for biocides which contribute significant VOC to paint or coating formulations. “Biocide suppliers that have products with low to zero-VOC contribution are experiencing vigorous sales growth,” said Anthony Dallmier, market manager, industrial preservation, Lanxess. “As a result, the demand for biocides for low-and zero-VOC coatings shifted the product development pipeline of biocide suppliers. Lanxess has focused on expanding our portfolio with low-VOC and VOC-free actives and formulations; we have new EPA registrations for several bactericides and fungicides.”

Dow Biocides is focusing on universal formulations that would be applicable in low-VOC paint. “By universal, we mean that formulators can use these products in existing paint formulations as well as in future products without having to reformulate,” said Ken Littel, global marketing manager, Dow Biocides. “In some cases you may be able to use less of the biocides without altering the level of active used.”