Meeting the challenge of Rule 1151 with Formulary Approaches Using Resins and Additives

Join us at the 2026 Coatings Trends and Technologies Summit in Lombard, IL, September 15 - 17, 2026. While you are there, don't miss Anthony (Tony) Moy, Sr. Technical Specialist, presentation on Meeting the Challenge of Rule 1151 with Formulary Approaches Using Resins and Additives on Thursday, September 17, at 11:25 AM.

Abstract

Rule 1151 was instituted by the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) in the US. Rule 1151’s primary focus is to reduce volatile air contaminants (VOCs), toxic air contaminants, ozone-depleting compounds and global-warming compounds from automotive refinishing coatings and solvents used in the manufacture of vehicles, mobile equipment and associated parts. This new regulation impacts the Automotive industry in that it not only establishes lower VOC criteria, but also removes key VOC exempt solvents as tools for formulators, creating a significant challenge to meeting the new standards. To address this, work was done at BASF to explore formulary approaches to meeting Rule 1151 VOC criteria using resins and additives within the BASF portfolio. Case study experiments with clearcoat formulations were done to examine the impact on VOC while providing good film and application properties through this formulation methodology/approach. The results of this work and the formulary strategies and approaches used will be detailed in this presentation, highlighting various resins and additives used to meet the various VOC criteria milestones of the new regulation. This work will demonstrate the potential impact of formulary approaches towards meeting the Rule 1151 criteria.