Library: Resources & Media
Press Releases
TraQr™ 2.0 Provides Expanded Capabilities in Support of Data-Driven Decision Making
The ChemQuest Group has expanded the capabilities of its Coatings TraQr™ interactive dashboard and forecasting tool. Coatings TraQr™ combines input data relative to key market consumption, macroeconomic indicators, and raw materials to aid subscribers in their holistic business strategy and planning. Coatings TraQr™ 2.0 augments the original iteration’s U.S. focus and now provides access to a full suite of global economic indicators.
ChemQuest Names Carla McBain, Ph.D., Director
The ChemQuest Group has appointed Carla McBain, Ph.D., a director. McBain’s wealth of experience includes the development of numerous specialty materials, including polymers for various applications, latex copolymers, and prototype paint formulations. She is also well-versed in emulsion and colloid methodology, computer modeling and statistical experimental design, and global regulatory compliance requirements.
New Format for Fraunhofer IFAM European Adhesive Specialist (EAS) Course
The ChemQuest Group has announced an evolution of the popular Fraunhofer IFAM European Adhesive Specialist (EAS) course. ChemQuest is the exclusive cooperation partner of Fraunhofer IFAM for EAS and European Adhesive Bonder (EAB) courses in North America. New for 2023, the EAS course will blend online and in-person learning to provide participants with a combined virtual and hands-on opportunity.
Market Reports
Articles
ChemQuest Q&A: Eric Casebolt
With interests ranging from new technology development to marketing strategy, Eric Casebolt spent much of his career with large, multinational raw materials suppliers. Always learning and evolving, he enjoys digging into clients’ problem areas and helping to develop innovative solutions. Eric joined ChemQuest in 2023 and currently serves as a vice president working on ChemQuest’s business development team. I spoke with him recently about his career, why he was drawn to ChemQuest, and how his accumulated knowledge and experience help support his work with our clients today.
Electric Avenue: The Changing Landscape of Mobility
The coatings industry has been serving the transportation industry since the introduction of the Ford Model-T. Many traditional coatings used today can be used on electric vehicles, but EVs represent a major engineering pivot from mechanically driven to chemically driven vehicles.
ASTM Testing for Cool Roof, Wall, and Pavement Applications
There are two basic types of cool-roof coatings: elastomeric and cementitious. The properties of elastomeric coatings are governed primarily by D6083/D6083M-24 Standard Specification for Liquid-Applied Acrylic Coating Used in Roofing. This specification defines the viscosity, volume, and weight solids required for cool coatings. It also establishes the minimum efficacy standards derived from successful in-service performance throughout the United States.
The Challenges of Product Development in the Coatings Industry
Raw material suppliers that aspire to enter new segments within the coatings industry may find themselves going “back to the drawing board” as it becomes clear the products they develop do not provide a strong value proposition to their customers. These companies should consider shortening their product development cycle by acquiring personnel with relevant coatings experience or partnering with an experienced third party to support their product development efforts.
Navigating Geopolitical Challenges
In light of the recent U.S. presidential election, many companies are looking to take proactive measures to plan for anticipated import tariff increases. President-elect Trump suggested he would impose tariffs of 60-100% on some China-produced goods imported to the U.S., and he favors a 20% universal tariff for all other countries. The higher costs associated with these tariffs are certainly challenging. The question is: What is the best course of action for your business?
ChemQuest Q&A: Prem Patel
Prem Patel describes his life as “one giant episode of ‘How It’s Made,’” and rightly so. Fueled by insatiable curiosity, he is a lifelong learner who has a knack for picking up information and channeling it to solve problems and identify opportunities. After joining ChemQuest this year, Prem quickly became involved in numerous business strategy projects, as well as our expanded focus on business development efforts. I recently had the opportunity to chat with him about his background and experience, as well as trends he’s tracking in the specialty chemicals and advanced materials sectors.











