International . . . PPG Builds New Lab: Developing next-generation Coatings for Self-Driving Cars

October 30, global coatings giant PPG announced it would invest in a 2,100-square-foot automotive adhesive and sealant lab at its existing 42-acre production and research base in Cleveland, OhioThe facility was recently completed and will focus on the development and testing of structural adhesives, sealants and related products for passenger cars (cars), light trucks, SUVs and commercial vehiclesPPG scientists will also use the new lab to continue developing next-generation coatings for lithium-ion batteries, modules and battery packs for battery electric and self-driving carsnew laboratories will include state-of-the-art equipment for testing strength, flexibility, adhesion and sound insulation of PPG products used by some of the world's leading original equipment manufacturers (OEMs)The lab has also created new high-tech chemistry and research at PPG's Cleveland plant" every layer of paint in a modern passenger car or commercial truck contains a lot of scientific knowledge"With this impressive new facility, PPG continues to invest in advanced research and manufacturing capabilities that benefit automakers, battery and parts suppliers, especially consumers,"
said Gary Bennett, general manager of PPG"
PPG is a global leader in structural adhesive technologyThe company's CORABOND? adhesive enables vehicle manufacturers to effectively and reliably connect a range of different materials without the need for expensive welding, resulting in significant cost and weight savingsThe company also offers a wide range of professional sealants that support automotive and truck manufacturers' lightweight strategies and help improve vehicle functional performance and durabilityPPG's automotive adhesive and sealant technology also meets the needs of a wide range of electric vehicle battery packs, including sealing of battery pack housings and components, battery and module-to-battery pack fixing, structural reinforcement, impact and thermal management's plant in Cleveland, Ohio, is PPG's flagship manufacturing facility for automotive OEM coatingsThe plant, located in the city's West Park district, has been an integral part of PPG since it was acquired by Forbes Varnish, which began operating in 1907In addition to using advanced manufacturing methods to produce and transport its products, the Cleveland facility is home to a field service laboratory equipped with the same applications and curing equipment used by customers