Protective coatings to get a professional upgrade with PCS certification

The PCS certification by SSPC offers a structured approach to mastering protective coatings, addressing common failure points and empowering professionals to make informed decisions.

Could you explain the significance of the recently launched Protective Coatings Specialist (PCS) certification and how it adds value to contractors and asset owners?

We offer the Protective Coatings Specialist (PCS) training to impart good painting practices and familiarise applicants with the fundamental aspects of protective coatings, such as their classification and types, application methods, and hands-on practical training. This helps participants to characterise protective coatings before application and test them afterwards for several key properties to establish their chemical characteristics, mechanical properties, and long-term stability.

How is SSPC adapting its training programs for the Indian market, and what skill gaps are you addressing among project professionals and applicators?

We have been operating in India for nearly 20 years, focusing on training programmes for Quality Assurance of paint coatings at two levels: Level I and Level II.

Level I is a basic course that covers coating fundamentals, surface preparation, paint application techniques, quality assurance methods with insights from real-site applications, paint failure diagnostics and remedies, safety in paint application, and coating selection and specification. This is supported by a one-day practical session in our laboratory, where participants demonstrate and practise over 30 different test methods.

In our Level II programme, we delve into examples from key industries like Oil and gas, chemical and petrochemical sectors, underground crude/gas and water pipelines, corrosion in reinforced concrete structures, and functional and smart coatings involving nanotechnology and energy-saving technologies such as solar heat reflective coatings.

What are the most promising innovations in protective coatings and corrosion mitigation technologies currently being explored or promoted by SSPC?

The most promising innovations we’re exploring involve nanotechnology in paint coatings. Nanotechnology enhances the protective properties of coatings and reduces raw material usage. It also enables the creation of special high-performance, functional, and smart coatings. Practical examples include self-cleaning, self-healing coatings; anti-microbial coatings; conductive coatings; and anti-dust absorber coatings.

How do your certifications and quality standards impact procurement decisions in public and private infrastructure projects?

We’ve observed that 90 percent of paint coating failures stem from a lack of knowledge about available coatings and their proper selection, surface preparation, application techniques, quality assurance processes, and understanding of applicable standards. Our training programmes address all of these gaps. Our two-level certification structure provides a comprehensive, affordable alternative to other costly training options, ensuring project professionals are better equipped to make informed procurement decisions.

What are your top strategic priorities for the Indian market in the next two years?

India’s paint market is reaching ₹70,000 crore and may touch ₹1,00,000 crore by 2028. Protective coatings have become a crucial component in a growing number of infrastructure projects. New applications such as tunnels, underground metros, long bridges, and flyovers demand innovative coating selection and application approaches. Quality assurance programmes and practical training are essential to ensure durability and design life. We are fully prepared to support the Indian industry in meeting these emerging challenges.

For more information, visit:https://www.kptllab.com/