BASF, DaimlerChrysler produce 'Liquid Metal' waterborne paint line

MÜNSTER/SINDELFINGEN, Germany — BASF Coatings and DaimlerChrysler have teamed up to produce a waterborne paint line called Liquid Metal that is the result of the successful integration of a special-effect pigment into a waterborne paint system to produce a metallic look that gleams like liquid metal. The companies say the environmentally friendly paint complies with all environmental legislation.

Project teams from DaimlerChrysler and BASF Coatings began working together in 2004, conducting extensive research and testing before the new effect class could be launched. Liquid Metal stretches around the metal parts like a metallic skin, emphasizing the design lines and vehicle contours more strongly than any other finish and making them even livelier through targeted light reflection, say the companies.

Liquid Metal calls for an elaborate preparatory process prior to painting, beginning with the substrate of the vehicle body. It needs to be extremely smooth and even in order to prevent any unevenness from showing through.

The new paint is being offered by Mercedes-Benz as part of its designo program. For further information, visit www.basf-coatings.com.