Pure Performance Paint

PPG claims that until now all zero-VOC paints have either suffered from performance problems (especially regarding durability) or were sold at a cost premium that limited their market. To avoid both these problems, the company is using a resin developed by Air Products Corporation, of Allentown, Pennsylvania, called vinyl acetate ethylene, that is new to the paint industry. “This new generation technology in terms of resins allows us to bring a product to market that has no compromises on durability, and at a similar price point,” says Passinault. Most latex paints are based on acrylic resins (at the higher end), polyvinyl acetate resins (in less expensive lines), or a combination of the two.

Pittsburgh’s tints are not VOC-free, so adding color does add a small amount of VOC to the product, but this does not appear to be a significant issue. “The maximum loading in a neutral base (the most saturated color) is less than two grams per liter,” according to Passinault.