BOSTON – Henkel Adhesive Technologies invested an undisclosed sum in Actnano, an advanced materials startup that provides conformal coatings.

“As part of our venturing activities, we are looking for novel and scalable formulated technologies providing unique benefits for growing markets,” said Paolo Bavaj, head of corporate venturing, Adhesive Technologies. “Functional coatings are a major focus topic for our Adhesive Technologies business. We are excited to work with Actnano, who has developed a conformal coating technology that protects entire printed circuit board systems responding to the fast-growing demands, especially in automotive electronics and consumer electronics. The technology has already proven its marketability and is commercially available. Together we aim to unlock new opportunities across Henkel´s extensive customer base in these markets globally. We are pleased to have coinvested into Actnano as part of a consortium led by Emerald Technology Ventures, where we are a limited partner.”

Actnano has developed a commercialized technology for gel-based coatings with waterproofing and environmental-resistant properties. The materials are designed to provide superior protection to PCBs including connectors, antennas, LEDs and all mounted components, and provide benefits in automotive electronics and consumer electronics applications.

The liquid-applied coatings offer a drop-in solution for existing coating lines. The technology is hydrophobic, electrically insulating and allows electrical connection through the coating.

“These days, electronics run the car. We make sure the electronics keep running even after the coffee spills,” said Taymur Ahmad, CEO of Actnano. “When automotive electronics like autopilot systems interact with water or other environmental aggressors, the consequences can be dire. With the recent explosion of self-driving and technology-laden vehicles, a better solution for protective coatings was needed. Actnano responded, creating a hydrophobic, electrically insulating coating that allows electrical connection through the coating. Since connections have historically had to remain uncoated and thus vulnerable to water damage, this innovation is an industry gamechanger.”

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