The Surface Treatment global business unit of BASF’s Coatings division, operating under the Chemetallbrand, opened its first regional innovation and technology center for applied surface treatment technology in Shanghai, China. The new 2,600-square-meter center will focus on developing advanced surface treatment solutions and product innovations for a wide range of industries and market segments in Asia, for Asia.

Equipped with multiple technical capabilities and operated by a highly experienced technology team, the new laboratories can provide a comprehensive range of tests and services including analytical, application, salt spray and climate testing as well as development work on a range of applied surface treatment technologies and applications for various market segments including but not limited to automotive OEM and components, coil, general industry, cold forming, aerospace, aluminum finishing and glass.

The center also runs various state-of-the-art simulation lines for pre-treatment and coating processes including VIANT, a novel coating technology for corrosion protection.