North America Leads in Advanced Coating Solutions to Combat Corrosion

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A new survey from AkzoNobel's powder coating brand Interpon provides insight into how North American manufacturers are navigating the challenges and opportunities of corrosion protection. The results show that North America is leading in the use of advanced coating solutions, with 11% of manufacturers specifying the highest C5 level of protection - nearly double the rate in Europe or Asia. This progressive stance is driven by sectors with harsh operating environments, and enabled by the region's access to a broad range of coating options. However, North American manufacturers also take a pragmatic approach, carefully weighing the risks and rewards of transitioning to new coating technologies.

Why it matters

Corrosion is a hidden cost that erodes not just metal, but also profit margins, reputation and operational resilience for manufacturers. It is estimated to cost global industry $3 trillion annually, with up to $875 billion considered avoidable through improved prevention strategies. North America's vast manufacturing sector, diverse climate variation and global competition place specific pressures on those producing coated assets, making the region's leadership in advanced coating solutions significant.

The details

The survey of 1,000 global manufacturers across sectors including architecture, industrial, automotive, EVs and more reveals that in North America, 33% identify lost customers and product returns as their main corrosion-related cost, while 30% highlight the waste, landfill and environmental burden from shortened product lifespans. This is driving a pragmatic approach that combines higher protection standards with production efficiency. 11% of North American manufacturers specify the highest C5 level of protection, almost double the rate in Europe or Asia. Another 26% use high C4 protection, reflecting the region's harsh operating environments. This progressive stance is enabled by the region's strong access to coating solutions, with 43% of manufacturers saying coatings are 'very easy' to source - the highest rate globally.

• The survey was conducted in 2026.

What’s next

The survey findings suggest that North American manufacturers will continue to prioritize advanced coating solutions that balance cost, efficiency and durability to combat corrosion, as they navigate tightening procurement standards and harsher operating environments.