The company’s RUBBOL 100% UV cured exterior range of Sikkens wood coatings is the first of its kind. By cutting out up to 16 hours of drying time, the coating system is able to significantly save on production time and energy costs, while providing leading performance. Since the product range produces zero emissions and requires no mixing, it makes the production process more sustainable, another important factor for many of our large-scale customers. “We know the benefits of transitioning to a UV production line have to add up because, while it’s an exciting prospect for many of our customers, it also represents a big investment,” says Simon Parker, Director of AkzoNobel’s Industrial Coatings business. “Our 100% UV RUBBOL range now offers compelling cost savings to go along with the excellent performance. So, there’s never been a better time to make the switch.” The coating system consists of a putty, primer and topcoat ...

The global uncertainties due to COVID-19 pandemic led to huge impact on traditional demand in various industries and petrochemical was no different but it has come unscathed, says Saugata Chaudhuri, Head – Petrochemicals Marketing, Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited. Chaudhuri says, “Refineries across the globe and India as well were trying to cope up with the demand disruptions due to the lockdown. As a result, petrochemical plants had to balance their operating costs and even reduce their maintenance costs. The situation improved after November 2020 but then a storm hit North America, causing disruptions in supply. What followed was the increase in freight rates and shortage of containers. Consequently, trade became more regionalized. Currently, the demand is bullish and we expect that demand will improve after 2021.”  “We have to understand that the petrochemicals market is dependent on many factors. For example, polyethylene demand has ...