Partnership comes after tests showed the effectiveness of a new material that can bring improvements in barrier and anti-corrosion properties

Applied Graphene Materials has signed a Joint Development Agreement with a large European consumer chemicals business, after achieving what it called “outstanding performance results” from proof of concept studies for a new product.

The Redcar-based producer of speciality graphene materials has joined forces with James Briggs, which formulates and supplies aerosol paints and high performance materials to well-known industry brands across numerous markets.

The pair have already begun an accelerated product development programme with a view to early market exploitation of graphene.

Under the agreement, James Briggs will incorporate graphene material into its existing paint formulations to deliver higher-performing primers with improved corrosion protection.

It is expected is that this range of primers will be launched in early 2017.

The two businesses will also be cooperating on potential applications for lubrication products, given the improved friction properties offered by the application of graphene.

The news comes after months of work that saw Applied Graphene Materials develop an improved graphene material that can deliver a six-fold improvement in barrier and anti-corrosion properties at low loading levels.

The performance of the substance has now been analysed by the PRA, an independent testing consultancy, which put it through ISO standard accelerated weathering and anti-corrosion tests.

On receiving positive results, the company has since been able to significantly accelerate joint developments across the global paints and coatings industry.

Tim Pugh, CEO of James Briggs Ltd, said: “We are keen to become the first specialty chemicals and coatings company to take advantage of this exciting new technology.

“The detailed understanding that AGM bring of how to get the most out of their material is impressive and we look forward to rapidly incorporating graphene into our own extensive range of everyday products.”