Mumbai: Clariant, a world leader in Specialty Chemicals showcased its innovative thinking expertise with Biocides – an ingredient that is a must for ‘preserving paints’. A presentation titled: ‘Do I Need Biocides?’ was presented by Dr. Alexander Snell – Head of ICS Business of Clariant Chemicals (India) Limited at the Paint India 2012, Ahmedabad Outreach Conference recently.

‘It is not just the colors or the coatings that you select, but what actually goes into it needs to be carefully considered’: Dr. Snell first described the various kinds of microbial organisms which can cause the spoilage of paints followed by description on both in-can and dry-film microbial degradation of paints. He emphasized the significance of plant hygiene and its components and on how one should keep a check on the sources of contamination in terms of raw material, processing equipment, the production environment, etc. Products of these industries, especially if water-based are susceptible to microbial spoilage, leading to losses. Biocides prevent spoilage during the life of the product. The biocide selection is crucial to encompass important factors like a broad spectrum of activity, a long-term performance with Temperature/pH stability, compatibility with other paint ingredients, effective at low dosages, Low/zero VOC, low toxicity to humans and the environment, compliance to regulatory requirements (BPD, REACH, etc.) and their cost-effectiveness.

“We at Clariant always believe in updating our customers to enable them understand the fundamentals of paints. We deliver a broad portfolio covering all our customers’ needs that are supported by a strong network of a well-established supply chain and quality that cannot be challenged,” explained Dr Alexander. He further stated that, ‘we conduct various tests to evaluate our biocides in the customers’ product based on different chemistries to suit every individual customer’s needs.

In parallel, Ms Melrina Mascarenhas, Microbiologist from Clariant Chemicals (India) Limited also participated at the Indian Small Scale Paint Association (ISSPA) sessions with a lecture on biocides suitable for the Paints and Construction Industries. The prime focus of her presentation was again on Biocides for the Paints, Coatings and Construction Chemicals Industry. Biocides prevent this spoilage during the life of the product. Melrina spoke about the need for biocides in these industries, the types of biocides available, our product range of Nipacide Biocides, importance of Plant hygiene in these industries and our Microbiology lab. She also further stated that, ‘we conduct various tests to evaluate our biocides in the customers’ product based on different chemistries to suit every individual customer’s needs. Our newly introduced testing method using a specially designed Algae Challenge Chamber for evaluating exterior paints is also another step to serve you better with a basket full of products and services combined with our International expertise, local manufacturing, lower lead times and a dedicated microbiology lab.