so had an opportunity to spray PPG’s latest innovation in waterborne technology – its new waterborne clearcoat. PPG is the first major paint manufacturer to globally launch a waterborne clearcoat. The clear looked phenomenal on
our panels.

But it wasn’t all fun and games. We got some serious classroom time in as well, with Gareth Hughes, director for global platform marketing/USCA technical, Doug Beuke, collision segment manager North America, and Snyder schooling us on a variety of topics. We learned about some of PPG’s goals with waterborne, one of which is converting all customers under the Ozone Transport Commission by January 2012. PPG has already converted a large percentage of its customers to waterborne technology, with the company billing it as “better for the environment technology/ better for YOU technology.”

Outside of California, the most converted states include Pennsylvania, New York, Michigan and Ohio.

Based on third-party study results, PPG states it has about 34 percent of the total automotive refinish market and 50 percent of the waterborne market. The Envirobase High Performance product features microgel anti-settle technology and offers more coverage and increased opacity, which makes it easier for the water to escape when drying.