PPG Industries announced a collaboration with IPG Photonics and Whirlpool Corporation to accelerate commercialization of laser-based powder coating curing systems.

The partnership centers on IPG’s PhotoniCURE™ laser curing technology, which uses infrared (IR) light to initiate crosslinking in powder coatings. Compared with conventional thermal curing, the laser process cures coatings in minutes, reduces heat requirements, increases throughput and lowers energy consumption.

PPG has installed a pilot finishing line featuring the PhotoniCURE system at its powder manufacturing and technical facility in Strongsville, Ohio, along with a laboratory system at its Coatings Innovation Center near Pittsburgh. Initial pilot trials are being conducted for Whirlpool across various appliance components to assess performance and environmental benefits. The process is expected to become available to additional customers.

The companies highlight three core advantages:

* Faster curing and higher line speeds
* Lower energy intensity and reduced environmental impact
* Compatibility with both standard and laser-optimized powder chemistries

The initiative aligns with PPG’s sustainability strategy, which includes investments in radiation-curable technologies, recycled PET-based powders and PFAS-free formulations. PPG reported 2025 net sales of $15.9 billion and operates 21 powder coating manufacturing plants globally.

The collaboration signals a potential shift toward laser-enabled finishing systems in high-volume industrial manufacturing.

Business Wire