New PPG Coating Offers Fire Protection and Sustainability

Steelguard 652 provides up to 2 hours of fire protection with low VOCs and easy application.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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PPG has introduced a new high-performance, water-based intumescent fire protection coating called Steelguard 652 that is designed for interior structural steelwork. The product offers up to 2 hours of fire protection and is UL 263 certified, providing users confidence in its performance. The low-VOC waterborne formulation supports more sustainable construction practices.

Why it matters

As building codes and sustainability standards continue to evolve, construction materials that can provide robust fire protection while also minimizing environmental impact are in high demand. Steelguard 652 addresses these needs with its combination of long-lasting fire resistance and low-VOC composition.

The details

Key features of the new Steelguard 652 coating from PPG include long-lasting protection of up to 20 years, low-VOC emissions to enable efficient trade stacking at job sites, and easy on-site application with standard spray equipment for smooth, consistent coverage. The coating also offers low certified thickness, high bond strength, and high impact resistance.

  • Steelguard 652 was introduced in February 2026.

The players

PPG

A global supplier of paints, coatings, and specialty materials headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

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The takeaway

Steelguard 652 demonstrates how construction materials can be designed to balance fire safety, sustainability, and ease of use - an increasingly important combination as the building industry works to meet evolving performance and environmental standards.