The new tool for the digital analysis of coated test samples developed by Evonik delivers quantifiable results within few seconds.
The Coating Additives business line of Evonik
has launched COATINO® Defect Detection (CDD), a new tool for the digital analysis of coated test samples that precisely and objectively detects and evaluates coating defects, delivering quantifiable results within a few seconds.
Usually, when developing a new formulation, laboratory personnel used to rely on samples which had to be carefully compared and evaluated visually. This routine work was then very time-consuming, especially for larger test series. COATINO Defect Detection allows laboratory experts to save a lot of time by using a camera connected to the computer to photograph the coated samples. Within seconds the tool assesses them, using innovative image recognition methods.
“COATINO Defect Detection simplifies our customers' daily laboratory routine and frees them up for other important tasks. In addition, our digital solution delivers objectively reproducible results. This means that the evaluation of test samples no longer depends on the subjective assessment of laboratory personnel,” has stated Oliver Kröhl, the head of Strategic Business Development at Evonik Coating Additives.
The new tool developed by Evonik, which is part of the COATINO formulation network, evaluates coating defects to an accuracy of a tenth of a percent. The application is browser-based, so there is no need to install the software on the lab computers. The test series are documented in the system and can be retrieved at any time. In addition, an integrated help centre provides detailed answers to all questions regarding the required hardware or individual application steps.
“For example, you can immediately see what percentage of the surface is affected by foam. Reference formulations or blank samples can also be added to more clearly highlight the performance of the tested formulations. Based on the data, you can select the best formulation for the specific application,” clarifies Philipp Isken, head of COATINO Product Development.
The digital analysis tool was initially developed for pigmented systems in the architectural sector. The Coating Additives business line of Evonik plans to add more industries and defect types to it and, in the next stage of development, the CDD will also independently suggest new formulations.