Nippon Paint Pioneers Construction Excellence
Over the course of 56 years, Nippon Paint has emerged as the leading manufacturer of paints and coatings in Malaysia and Asia, serving both commercial enterprises and households. The brand has already carved a solid reputation for itself in the industry, however their commitment to continue pushing the boundaries of innovation remains steadfast, rising as a provider of Total Coating and Construction Solutions (TCCS) in 2022.
Nippon Paint has expanded its footprint into diverse markets across from various segments from bare to finish including drymix solutions, sealants, adhesive and filler solutions (SAF), waterproofing solutions, flooring solutions, protective coatings, and architectural coatings. By addressing construction pain points, we ensure optimal efficiency, cost efficiency, timeliness, and minimal disruption to construction schedules.
B&I: Can you highlight what efflorescence is and what it entails?
Tay Sze Tuck: Efflorescence occurs when mineral salts within a wall migrate to its surface, typically due to moisture infiltrating cracks or porous surfaces. As the water evaporates, it leaves behind chalky and whitish substance that are visible on the wall’s exterior. This is especially common in our Malaysian weather due to strong heatwaves and heavy rainfall.
B&I: What are the key effects especially for new projects?
Tay Sze Tuck: The occurrence of efflorescence typically occurs within two to three months after construction. This is not a minor issue, as it creates the impression that the building is aging prematurely, thereby devaluing new projects. This then leads to potential buyers and tenants losing confidence in purchasing newly launched residential properties as well as complaints from current property owners.
B&I: How do plan to determine the root cause among the multiple stakeholders during the pre-construction stage?
Tay Sze Tuck: Efflorescence occurs when there is a lack of research on material system compatibility, improper product usage and application. This issue is exacerbated by the lack of awareness and knowledge in the market. By identifying this gap in the construction industry, Nippon Paint aims to innovate in this segment and educate the market about anti-efflorescence systems.
B&I: What are the main innovative features with respect to Nippon Paint’s Anti-Efflorescence System and its preventive aspects?
Tay Sze Tuck: Our Anti-Efflorescence System guarantees a seamless application process and optimal performance. We provide compatible systems and quality materials from bare to finish – from bricklaying, plastering, skim coating, painting (wall sealer) and painting (topcoat). Nippon Paint’s Anti-Efflorescence System is the first in the region, and effectively prevents efflorescence by utilising specialised materials and technologies. Here’s how each component contributes:
1. Hydrophobic Properties: The system includes a hydrophobic cement-based skim coat, the CMI® Base Mortar Grey EX981, which exhibits excellent water repellency. This feature prevents water from penetrating into the skim coat and reaching soluble salts within the wall. By minimizing moisture ingress, the system reduces the availability of dissolved salts that can migrate to the surface and cause efflorescence.
2. Deformability & Flexibility: The skim coat and other components of the system are designed with good deformability and flexibility. This characteristic helps to accommodate minor movements and stresses that occur due to exterior weather conditions. By maintaining the integrity of the surface and reducing the formation of cracks, the system mitigates pathways for water infiltration and subsequent efflorescence formation.
3. Quartz Technology: Nippon Paint’s Weatherbond® finishing coat incorporates Quartz technology, which enhances the protective properties of the system. Quartz particles provide increased resistance against acids, alkalis, and environmental contaminants. Additionally, the anti-carbonation properties of Quartz technology help to mitigate the effects of carbon dioxide exposure, which can contribute to efflorescence formation over time.
4. Microblock Technology: By incorporating anti-fungal properties, this technology prevents mold growth, a common issue in tropical climates with high humidity levels such as Malaysia, thereby ensuring the coating’s resilience and longevity.
5. Sunblock Technology: Adept at reducing surface temperature by up to 5°C, effectively mitigating the adverse effects of prolonged exposure to intense sunlight and UV radiation, including color fading and degradation.
6. Colour Care Technology: Offering UV light resistance and a thicker paint film, this technology ensures vibrant color retention and enhanced durability, even under the relentless tropical sun, thus preserving the aesthetic appeal and protective properties of the coating.
B&I: Are there any R&D tests to highlight the various effectiveness of Nippon Paint’s Anti-Efflorescence System?
Tay Sze Tuck: Nippon Paint has conducted rigorous R&D to validate the quality and effectiveness of the Anti-Efflorescence System. During our testing phase, we treated various surfaces over a 90-day period and observed that surfaces treated with the system remained free of white chalky deposits, while untreated surfaces display significant efflorescence.
The Nippon Paint Anti-Efflorescence System also guarantees compatibility between coating and underlying layers through a combination of rigorous compatibility system testing, the result of collaborative research and development efforts between Nippon Paint and CMI enabling these innovative formulations within each layer to bond effectively with the next, creating a cohesive and resilient surface that withstands various environmental stresses. By addressing potential issues like faded colour, water absorption, hairline cracks, the system ensures long-lasting protection and an exceptional finish, thus enhancing the overall quality of construction projects.
Due to our confidence in our anti-efflorescence system, we are also the first in the region to provide a warranty against efflorescence with the cutting-edge hydrophobic technology.
Notes:
1. Efflorescence testing conducted by placing coated panels onto cotton wih salt solution and left to observe the salt formation on the surface.
2. Testing scenario is considered an extreme condition and does not reflect actual site efflorescence.
B&I: In conclusion, what are the various aspects that Nippon Paint’s Anti-Efflorescence System is a viable investment for the building and construction industry?
Tay Sze Tuck: Nippon Paint’s Anti-Efflorescence System is a worthwhile investment for the construction industry due to its comprehensive approach to addressing common issues such as efflorescence, peeling, cracking, and fungal growth on painted surfaces. This system effectively prevents the migration of water-soluble salts that cause unsightly white chalky stains, thereby prolonging the lifespan of buildings, enhancing property value, and improving overall appeal and livability.
Developed in collaboration with CMI and backed by thorough compatibility testing, it ensures seamless application and optimal performance across all layers, from bricklaying to the final topcoat. Its versatility makes it suitable for various surfaces, including brick, block, and reinforced concrete walls.
Moreover, Nippon Paint is the first in the industry to offer a warranty for its Anti-Efflorescence services, providing customers with peace of mind and confidence in their investment. This commitment to excellence and resilience highlights the system’s importance in maintaining structural integrity in the long run.
An Introduction about Mr Tay Sze Tuck
Mr. Tay Sze Tuck, the esteemed General Manager of Nippon Paint Malaysia, brings over 30 years of invaluable experience in the paint and coatings industry. His extensive expertise and leadership have played a pivotal role in driving innovation and excellence within the company. In this interview, Mr. Tay discusses a crucial aspect of construction that is often overlooked: efflorescence. This hidden cost can impact the durability, aesthetics and value of a building and it’s often overlooked by architects and builders.
Appendix
The following is a table pertaining to the specific products used in the Nippon Paint Anti Efflorescence System for different types of walls such as brick walls, block walls, and reinforced concrete (RC) walls.
