AkzoNobel has inaugurated a new €6.5 million technology center in Songjiang, Shanghai. The new facility, the company’s largest in China, will support product innovation and development of next-generation paints, coatings and specialty chemicals.

The center employs 150 scientists and is equipped with a full array of state-of-the-art material analysis and performance testing facilities. In line with the company’s goal to create more eco-friendly solutions, the majority of products produced will be waterborne and powder-based.

“Innovation and locally developed products and solutions are critical to ensuring that we continue to create everyday essentials that make people’s lives more liveable and inspiring,” said Klaas Kruithof, RD&I Director of AkzoNobel’s Performance Coatings business. “The opening of this new technology center marks another milestone in the company’s organic growth strategy, as we continue to drive our innovation agenda and build a resilient portfolio of more sustainable products.”

Commenting on the inauguration of the new facility – an expansion of an existing AkzoNobel research center in Songjiang – Dr. Lin Liangqi, President of AkzoNobel China and Managing Director of the company’s Decorative Paints business in China and North Asia, added, “China accounts for between 10 and 15 percent of global RD&I investment annually. With Asia, and especially China, upgrading its manufacturing industry protocols, innovative solutions with strong sustainability features will be key to future success. The new center will therefore play a vital role in supporting manufacturing, as well as future markets, such as solar and wind power.”