ARNHEM, The Netherlands, June 24, 2003 (PRIMEZONE) -- Akzo Nobel (Nasdaq:AKZOY) has introduced a unique, easy-to-apply waterborne clearcoat for the vehicle body refinish market. Based on Akzo Nobel's patented waterborne technology, Sikkens Autoclear(R) WB is the world's first waterborne refinish clearcoat to not only dry in just 35 minutes, but also appear white on the panel when first sprayed to make it easier for the painter to control coverage.
"Technical innovation is of prime importance when developing new products and we are constantly striving to deliver products that enable our customers to increase efficiency and productivity and reduce costs," said Rudy van der Meer, Member of Akzo Nobel's Board of Management responsible for Coatings. "The launch of Sikkens Autoclear WB enables body repairers to provide customers with a refinish clearcoat based on a unique waterborne resin which can now compete with solvent borne clearcoats."
The innovative new product has been developed to provide easy application, VOC compliance, unique covering control and a high quality gloss finish. It appears white when first sprayed, but during flash-off the whiteness disappears and the surface turns into a clear gloss finish.
"This is a tremendous breakthrough for the industry," added Cor de Grauw, General Manager of Akzo Nobel Car Refinishes. "While it had been possible to develop waterborne basecoats some years ago, it hadn't been possible until recently to produce a clearcoat based on a waterborne resin. Waterborne clearcoats have been used on-line in the automotive industry for some years, but the development of Sikkens Autoclear WB means that body repairers can now provide customers with the same advanced product technology as the original finish."
Sikkens Autoclear WB is the final stage in offering a complete Sikkens waterborne refinish system -- comprising primer, filler, basecoat and clearcoat.
Note for the editor
Akzo Nobel, based in the Netherlands, serves customers throughout the world with healthcare products, coatings and chemicals. Consolidated sales for 2002 totaled EUR 14 billion. The Company currently employs approximately 67,500 people in more than 80 countries. Financial results for the second quarter will be published on July 18, 2003.
Internet: www.akzonobel.com
Akzo Nobel N.V., Marc Michelsen, Manager Corporate Communications, tel. +31 26 366 4343
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