Pioneering Sustainable Coatings: Shaping the Future of Industrial Innovation

With over 15 years of specialised experience in industrial coatings, Jigarkumar Patel has emerged as a leading voice in sustainable innovation. Currently serving as R&D Technical Manager in Greensboro, North Carolina, Patel brings a blend of deep academic insight and hands-on expertise to the development of high-performance, environmentally responsible coating solutions.

“My journey began with a strong foundation in polymer science and chemistry,” he shares. Holding a Master of Science in Polymers and Coatings from Eastern Michigan University and dual degrees in Polymer Technology and Chemistry from Sardar Patel University in India, Patel has always seen the intersection of science and sustainability as a space for meaningful progress.

Patel’s core focus lies in UV-curable and water-based coating systems, which align with the industry’s push for greener technologies. “These technologies offer a powerful way to reduce environmental impact without compromising on performance,” he explains. His dedication to eco-conscious formulations stems not only from regulatory demands but also from a genuine sense of environmental responsibility.

At the helm of multiple complex development projects, Patel implements a structured, milestone-based approach. “Balancing innovation with execution is key,” he says. “We use five-stage development frameworks, aligning efforts across sales, marketing, procurement, and manufacturing to ensure we stay on track and deliver value.”

Patel acknowledges that one of the most pressing challenges is reconciling performance demands with environmental compliance. “It requires constant research and alignment with global regulations. Our goal is to create universal formulations that perform reliably across diverse geographies while streamlining approval cycles,” he notes.

Measuring success, for Patel, is a holistic exercise. He closely monitors KPIs such as timeline adherence, formulation performance, customer satisfaction, and technology transfer. “Metrics like coating durability, environmental compliance, and real-world application efficiency are our true litmus tests,” he adds.

An advocate for innovation, Patel fosters a collaborative and exploratory team culture. “We encourage curiosity and recognise creativity,” he affirms. Brainstorming sessions, open technical discussions, and experimentation with novel raw materials are staples of his leadership style.

Looking ahead, Patel anticipates transformative shifts in the industry. “Advancements in bio-based materials, UV-LED curing, and AI-driven formulation tools will reshape how we design and manufacture coatings,” he predicts. His patented UV-curable coating for improved scratch resistance stands as a testament to this forward-thinking approach.

Patel remains deeply engaged with customers, offering technical training and support to ensure product success. “Their feedback is crucial. It fuels our development and keeps us aligned with evolving needs,” he emphasises.

As a published researcher and invited panellist at leading conferences, Jigarkumar Patel continues to inspire progress in sustainable coating technologies—mentoring the next generation while shaping the future of the industry.