Transforming automotive paint protection with graphene-enhanced coatings

The automotive paint protection industry faces growing demand for solutions that offer greater durability, improved aesthetics, and reduced maintenance requirements. Conventional wax and glass coatings can be susceptible to scratching, discolouration, and environmental degradation, particularly under prolonged heat exposure. Led by RP School of Applied Science, the team collaborated with a leading automotive surface protection provider to advance a next-generation graphene-based protective coating for automotive paintwork.  

The team developed an enhanced coating formulation by improving the dispersion of graphene-based nanomaterials through advanced processing techniques and optimised additives. The solution is designed to deliver improved mechanical performance, better coating stability, enhanced durability, and easier application while reducing material usage and production costs.   

An industry partner has since licensed the technology, marking an important step in translating RP’s applied research into industry impact. The formulation platform also supports potential adoption in thermal management, conductive inks, flame-retardant materials, and energy-saving coatings. This achievement reflects the value of industry collaboration in transforming materials research into scalable commercial innovation.