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The Future of Sustainable Coatings is in the Hands Natural Minerals The international coatings sector is currently in a time of major change, with sustainability now at the heart of its agenda. Growing environmental regulations, mounting consumer awareness and the need for carbon reduction are forcing manufacturers to give new thoughts about traditional coating compositions. In this move towards greener options, natural minerals are being seen more and more frequently as key building blocks of sustainable coatings with superior performance. Natural minerals like calcium carbonate, talc, kaolin, silica, dolomite and barytes enable the best possible performance with efficient and safe production processes and a consistent commitment to the environment. Such metals occur widely in nature, are chemically inert and do not require as much processing energy as many of the alternatives. In so doing, they also contribute to the reduction of environmental impact in coatings systems at a constant or even improved functional performance level. One of the benefits of mineral-based coatings is its contribution to the reduction of VOCs. Inorganics improve viscosity control, opacity, film strength and durability so formulators can reduce the use of organic solvents and synthetic additives. This results in the creation of low-VOC and zero-VOC decorative paints, water-based industrial coatings, or green primers which are barrier compliant in any market worldwide. Minerals also help to achieve energy saving in production. Performance extenders are used to maximize binder use and minimize heavy metal colorant dependence on TiO2. Quicker cure times, better dispersion and higher material efficiency mean less energy is used and production is more efficient. More durable, through the lifecycle of a product, also means fewer repaint cycles, saving resources and minimizing long-term impact on the environment. Each of these minerals serve a unique purpose in frugal coatings. Calcium carbonate increases brightness, limit the demand of carbon-intensive pigment and opacity. Talc helps improve moisture resistance and film integrity. Kaolin provides natural whiteness and improved scrub resistance, and silica and diatomaceous earth deliver matting and anti-slip characteristics. Emery (dolomite and barytes) - improves weatherability & density for protective and industrial coatings. The coatings industry’s “trends in sustainability keep on coming.” The takeover of water based systems, bio based resins and mineral hybrids, reuse of raw materials through circular system as well as nano minerals technologies is being introduced faster. These breakthroughs enable formulators to enhance high performance with lower raw material weight -lesser environmental consequence. 20 Microns is proud to be in the vortex of this eco-friendly revolution. With more than 40 years experience in engineered minerals, the group focuses on responsible mining, energy efficiency and natural resource maintenance and research and development. By concentrating on ultra-white, high-brightness minerals, pigment volume is minimized, and surface-treated extenders support modern water-based and low-carbon coating systems. Firm adherence to international environmental norms additionally indicates commitment towards sustainability. With the coatings industry's increasing focus on sustainability, natural minerals will be key to helping secure this innovation. With performance, cost-effectiveness and the environment in mind, mineral-based technologies are forming next generation coatings for today’s applications without jeopardizing tomorrow’s resources. It is through sustainable practices and innovative mineral technologies that companies such as 20 Microns are playing their part in the creation of a cleaner, more responsible coatings industry.

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