Non-toxic paints from seaweed

Currently, paints and varnishes are mostly solvent-based rather than water-based, because the former have better durability. Solvent-based coatings are associated with harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are being phased out by EU legislation.

The NEXT1KOAT (Novel high performance, waterbased "high solids" and bio-based industrial wood coating) project is an EU-funded attempt to develop environmentally friendly water-based coatings from seaweed.

Thus far, the project has developed alternative coating compounds from sustainable seaweed sources. Researchers chose seaweed compounds as seaweed crops do grow on land, thus avoiding increased land use pressure.

NEXT1KOAT researched chemical reactions and processes concerning these seaweed compounds, and tested their compatibility with other compounds. The project also developed processes to manufacture a range of important coating compounds from the seaweed building blocks. Scientists have also investigated methods for application, drying and curing using these compounds.

This project will contribute to the reduction of pollution and hazardous VOCs originating from paints and varnishes. Furthermore, workers and painters will no longer be exposed to toxic compounds associated with these coatings.