Pigments. (Reformulation Continues as the VOC Target Broadens: A Review of Raw Materials)(volatile organic compounds) (Paints & Coatings)

VOC levels are also a concern in the area of pigments and colorants. So are lead and heavy metals, which are being largely eliminated under regulatory pressure. The federal government, for example, may follow 14 states--led by the Council of Northeast Governors--in mandating heavy metals removal. State schedules set current limits at 600 parts per million (ppm), with 100-ppm limits three years out for hexavalent chrome, cadmium, lead, and mercury. California's recently enacted lead abatement tax will also affect paints and coatings. Suppliers, generally, are working toward bringing current chemistries within the new perimeters in reformulations and are also pursuing the growing market for alternative products.

Huls America (Piscataway, NJ) has launched a major research effort at getting VOCs below detectable levels in all product lines, says Thomas Maggio, executive v.p./colorants and coating additives. Huls took a step this …