Illuminating the Future of UV Curing
What Is UV / UV
LED Curing?
At AkzoNobel Wood Coatings, we are illuminating the future of wood finishing.
UV and UV LED (light emitting diode) are technologies that use high-intensity ultraviolet (UV) light to instantly cure coatings through polymerization. The technology transforms a liquid coating to a solid coating instantly, through a process where photoinitiators absorb UV-light and generate radicals. This in turn initiates a chain-reaction with monomers and oligomers in the coating. UV LED curing systems are a more advanced form of the technology. They use LEDs to provide a more energy-efficient and more sustainable alternative to traditional heat-cured systems.
Innovation doesn’t wait. Neither should you.
Why Move To UV?
Technology & Performance
Instant curing enables immediate handling and stacking, and delivers consistent, high-quality results across suitable substrates and applications, resulting in higher productivity and output.
Efficiency & Cost
By reducing process steps, you can boost throughput and improve operational efficiency. Instant drying, lower energy consumption, optimized material use, and fewer reworks further help cut operational costs. Our Cost2Coat calculator also helps quantify potential savings, payback periods, and overall return on investment.
Sustainability
UV and UV LED technologies can reduce the product carbon footprint, including lower VOC emissions by up to 60%. In addition, the shift to 100% solids UV can cut absolute carbon emissions by up to 90% thanks to lower product usage and up to 55% reduction in carbon footprint.
*Based on cradle-to-gate GWP, with options including A1-A5, VOC, and C3+C4.
UV Technologies Explained
Different production setups require different UV technologies. Our portfolio includes 100% solids UV and waterborne UV, delivering virtually zero VOCs, excellent film performance, and are suitable for use on roller lines, spray and curtain coaters.
UV Technology Applications
UV and UV LED technologies deliver fast curing, long-lasting finishes and high-efficiency production across a wide range of applications, from Cabinets Products to panels and building products.
Why AkzoNobel
For over 40 years, we've pioneered UV and UV LED technologies that transform performance, efficiency, and sustainability across production lines.
Our Technical Service and R&D teams, together with our Malmö Technical Application Centre help evaluate and implement the right solutions for you.