In a bid to accelerate research and innovation in India’s coatings sector, Harcourt Butler Technical University (HBTU), Kanpur, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Mercury Industries, a leading manufacturer of industrial coatings and chemicals.
Focus of the partnership
The collaboration will primarily focus on packaging solutions, particularly innovations in can coatings, printing inks, and specialty industrial finishes. These areas are becoming increasingly important as industries demand coatings that are safer, more durable, and environmentally sustainable.
“Packaging is no longer just about aesthetics. It’s about safety, sustainability, and performance. Our partnership with Mercury Industries will help bring practical solutions that can transform the packaging and coatings sector,” said an HBTU official at the signing ceremony.
Industry-academia synergy
The initiative is part of a broader push to strengthen academia-industry collaborations in India, ensuring that scientific research translates into practical applications. For students and researchers, the tie-up will provide opportunities for hands-on projects, internships, and exposure to real-world challenges in the coatings industry.
For Mercury Industries, the partnership brings access to cutting-edge academic research and a pipeline of trained professionals equipped with specialized skills. The company hopes to commercialize new formulations that meet global sustainability standards, giving it a competitive edge in export markets.
Sustainability at the core
One of the main objectives of the collaboration is to develop coatings that align with global sustainability trends. With increasing demand for low-VOC, recyclable, and eco-friendly packaging materials, the coatings sector faces mounting pressure to innovate. Research projects under this MoU will prioritize green chemistry and circular economy principles.
Broader impact on the paints industry
While the MoU is centered on packaging and industrial finishes, experts believe the innovations could also benefit the broader paints and coatings industry. Breakthroughs in chemical formulations, durability, and environmental safety can be adapted for decorative paints, automotive coatings, and construction chemicals.
Strengthening India’s position
By encouraging local innovation, partnerships like this also strengthen India’s position in the global coatings value chain. Currently, much of the cutting-edge R&D in paints is concentrated in Europe and the US. Indian institutions collaborating with industry players can help bridge that gap, ensuring homegrown solutions cater to domestic and international markets.
The way forward
The HBTU-Mercury partnership is set to roll out joint research projects over the next three years, with a focus on pilot testing and commercialisation. If successful, the collaboration could serve as a model for other universities and industries, paving the way for India to become a hub for coatings innovation.