PPG Aerospace, Altairnano Developing Chromate-free Aircraft Primer
SYLMAR, Calif., July 24, 2007 – PPG Industries' (NYSE:PPG) aerospace business and Altair Nanotechnologies (NASDAQ:ALTI) announced today agreements for the development and commercialization of environmentally friendly nanoparticle technology to replace chromate in aircraft primer that affords excellent corrosion resistance in high-solids and waterborne formulas. Terms were not disclosed.
PPG and Altairnano will develop nanometal oxide dispersion technology under a three-year research agreement, with an added five-year contract for commercialization and supply that begins in 2008.
The development combines Altairnano's proprietary nanometal oxide dispersion technology and PPG's proprietary resin to create a primer that will replace today's chromate-based coatings, according to Paul Bowman, PPG Aerospace global business platform manager for coatings.
Under the agreements, Altairnano will make the nanometal oxide chemical dispersion using PPG's proprietary resin technology to meet the final paint requirements.
"The technology will be developed for primer in both interior structural and exterior fuselage applications, giving customers a safe, sound solution to eliminate chromate from the production stream," Bowman said. "It represents the first time we will be able to have a primer that works similarly to chromate-containing materials without the environmental issues involved in the use of chromates."
Bowman said the technology also looks promising for the creation of other corrosion-resistant coatings, and the companies expect to commercialize the chromate-free primer later this year.
Altair Nanotechnologies Chief Executive Officer Alan Gotcher, Ph.D., said, "We are enthusiastic to be working with the world's largest aerospace coatings company to develop, commercialize and manufacture this green technology."
PPG Aerospace is the aerospace products and services business of PPG Industries. PPG Aerospace – PRC-DeSoto is the leading global producer and distributor of aerospace coatings, sealants, and packaging and application systems. PPG Aerospace – Transparencies is the world's largest supplier of aircraft windshields, windows and canopies.
About Altair Nanotechnologies
Based in Reno, Nev., Altairnano is an innovator and supplier of advanced, novel ceramic nanomaterials. Altairnano’s leading-edge scientists are complemented by a seasoned management team with substantial experience in commercializing innovative disruptive technologies. The company has developed nanomaterials for the alternative energy, life sciences and performance materials markets based on its proprietary manufacturing process. This process also provides the foundation for its innovative AHP pigment process. For more information, visit www.altairnano.com.About PPG
Pittsburgh-based PPG is a global supplier of paints, coatings, chemicals, optical products, specialty materials, glass and fiber glass. The company employs more than 34,000 people and has 125 manufacturing facilities and equity affiliates in more than 25 countries. Sales in 2006 were $11 billion. PPG shares are traded on the New York and Philadelphia stock exchanges (symbol: PPG). For more information, visit www.ppg.com.
