Scientists at AkzoNobel have developed a new waterborne wood coating which features 20% bio-based content, helping to increase the use of renewable raw materials, without compromising on performance.

Launched by the company’s Sikkens Wood Coatings business, RUBBOL WF 3350 is a sprayable opaque coating which showcases AkzoNobel’s innovative power and its commitment to developing more sustainable products that maintain the highest levels of quality and durability for customers.

“By utilizing bio-based raw materials, we're not only helping to reduce our environmental impact, but also paving the way for a more circular economy in the wood coatings industry, while supporting our customers on their own sustainability journey,” says Tessa Slagter, Sustainable Innovation Manager at AkzoNobel.

Adds Jim Kavanagh, Director of AkzoNobel’s Industrial Coatings business: “We've successfully developed a product containing bio-based materials that matches the high performance standards of equivalent coatings, ensuring that beauty and value endure, even in the harshest weather conditions. It represents a step forward in coatings technology which showcases our leading-edge R&D capability and aligns perfectly with the company’s commitment to sustainable innovation.”

Developed and manufactured at the company’s Malmö site in Sweden, RUBBOL WF 3350 is suitable for both interior and exterior use. It’s also backed by the Sikkens Wood Coatings Extralife warranty program, which provides end-users with added confidence in its longevity and performance – supporting the increasing use of wood as an essential material in building design.  

The product’s bio-based content has been verified by external C-14 testing using ASTM International’s standard methods (ASTM D6866, Method B). The bio-based content used in the new product are renewable materials derived from plants.

As well as wood coatings, AkzoNobel is working hard to incorporate bio-based content into other areas of its portfolio. For example, the company already supplies bio-based paint to KIA Motors for the inside of its EV9 electric SUV, while in China, the Angel edition of the Dulux Anndru series has been launched. It’s an innovative wall paint which helps to improve indoor air quality and is composed of 48% bio-based ingredients.