Bakeware coatings under the spotlight

Keywords: Coatings, Product testing

Coatings used in the manufacture of bakeware are reported to have been put under the spotlight after independent research revealed a wide variation in their performance and value for money.

Cooper Coated Coil (CCC), a world specialist in applying flouropolymer high temperature coatings to metal coil, has tested twelve systems used to manufacture most bakeware on sale in the UK. The results are believed to show that consumers may not always be getting what they pay for CCC designed tests to measure four attributes - release, adhesion, stain resistance and wear resistance. Each system was given marks out of ten for each category. The scores ranged between 34.5 out of a possible 40 down to just 9.5 (see attached table).

The research are said to have found that all the premium priced products tested have been overtaken in performance and value by newer systems. One premium priced traditional silicon system under- performed significantly compared with cheaper alternatives, coming ninth out of the 12 systems tested.

At the budget end of the market one coating reportedly not only performed much better than its two rivals in the same price bracket but also scored higher marks than both a premium and a mid priced system. Top marks went to two mid-priced systems.

There are no accepted European standards covering the performance of bakeware. Derek Crawford, CCC's technical director, said: "Our research showed some quite startling results. Coatings technology has moved on and the systems which underperformed in our tests have been overtaken by ones which have embraced recent developments."

Crawford points out that there is even debate over a clear definition of'non-stick'. "Depending on the polymer formulation, CCC prefers to classify some products as 'easyclean"' he said. 'These economy products are suitable for some baking applications and are sold by a number of supermarkets and discount stores. But there are supeder 'non-stick' alternatives available in the same price bracket which perform much better, especially where roasting or high temperature cooking is required."

CCC recently opened up its research and development facilities to both bakeware and coatings manufacturers. The company says it is now possible to tailor systems to meet the performance and value characteristics rated as most important by either the manufacturers or retail chains. For example, release and stain resistance can be adjusted by altering the polymer and additive balance. Controlled percentages of ceramic particles in the base coat alone will significantly improve wear resistance.

Crawford argued: "The data and the expertise exist to help coatings and bakeware manufacturers produce ranges which will last longer, perform better and offer better value for money. It's time the industry embraced the technical advances which have been made; if not, it could stand accused of short changing the consumer."

Details available from: Cooper Coated Coil Ltd. Tel: +44 (0)121 521 1500.