BASF launches new low VOC solvent-borne basecoat system designed to boost collision repair center profitability

Fast-dry solution offers customers several benefits and ability to increase throughput.

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Jul 11, 2013, 12:27 ET

SOUTHFIELD, Mich., July 11, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- BASF today announced the launch of a new, low volatile organic compound (VOC), fast-dry solvent-borne basecoat system, the ONYX™ HD Low VOC Productive System, in the U.S. and Canadian markets.

This new system produces low VOC basecoats that are either waterborne or solvent-borne –the only system currently on the market that provides these options. The system offers similar benefits and performance to national rule solvent-borne basecoat systems, and meets all VOC regulations across North America.

The product is easy to spray, offers enhanced de-nibbing, and dries quickly under common humidity and temperature conditions compared to other systems. Several collision repair centers have tested the new system, and reported significant decreases in drying times leading to more repairs in less time, which can result in increased profits.

"It's fabulous stuff to work with," said Cesi Paglia, a paint technician for Provincial Chrysler, Windsor, Ontario, Canada. "Cars get out of the booth sometimes in 50 percent less time."

"ONYX™ HD Low VOC workability is quicker and faster. The jobs are cleaner, and the end result is perfect," said Tony Castro, owner of ProCollision in Hialeah, Florida. "Because this product is formulated to mix perfectly with exempt solvents, my shop is VOC-compliant without having to purchase any new or additional water-based spray equipment."

"This new system is a truly unique basecoat that offers our customers options they've never had before," said Antonio Leandres, Market Segment Manager for BASF's Automotive Refinish business in North America. "A low VOC solution that dries quickly, saves energy, has excellent hiding capabilities, offers easy application and excellent color matching is something that is hugely beneficial and groundbreaking in the refinish market."

To learn more, please visit ONYX™ HD Low VOC Productive System.

About BASF's Automotive Solutions

The automotive industry is one of BASF's key customer industries, accounting for up to 15 percent of the Group's total sales. As the world's leading automotive supplier in the chemical industry, BASF is recognized as a reliable and competent partner by carmakers, suppliers, and the after-sales market. With a strong presence in Europe, Africa, North and South America, as well as in Asia, BASF has a global industry network. It supplies and develops functional materials and solutions that contribute to the vehicles of today and of the future. From engineering plastics, polyurethane and specialty foams, coatings and fuel additives to catalysts, battery materials, pigments, synthetic lubricants, coolants, brake fluids and chemicals for leather and textiles, BASF supplies a broad range of products for use in the automotive industry. Sales to the automotive industry in 2012 were €9.5 billion. Further information on BASF's automotive solutions is available on the Internet at www.basf.com.

BASF - The Chemical Company

BASF Corporation, headquartered in Florham Park, New Jersey, is the North American affiliate of BASF SE, Ludwigshafen, Germany. BASF has more than 16,600 employees in North America, and had sales of $18.5 billion in 2012. For more information about BASF's North American operations, visit www.basf.us.

BASF is the world's leading chemical company: The Chemical Company. Its portfolio ranges from chemicals, plastics, performance products and crop protection products to oil and gas. We combine economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility. Through science and innovation, we enable our customers in nearly every industry to meet the current and future needs of society. Our products and solutions contribute to conserving resources, ensuring nutrition and improving quality of life. We have summed up this contribution in our corporate purpose: We create chemistry for a sustainable future. BASF had sales of €72.1 billion in 2012 and more than 110,000 employees as of the end of the year. Further information on BASF is available on the Internet at www.basf.com.

SOURCE BASF