Sherwin-Williams has introduced a new suite of chemical‑resistant coating technologies designed to help industrial operators strengthen secondary containment and reduce environmental risk.

The ControlTech range, launched in Bolton, UK, responds to rising regulatory pressure on facilities to prevent chemical releases from reaching soil and water sources, a challenge highlighted in guidance such as the UK’s CIRIA C736 and Germany’s Water Resources Act.

Michael Harrison, global product director – linings, said the new systems arrive at a pivotal moment for operators facing tighter expectations. “Secondary containment is a critical safeguard for any facility handling hazardous chemicals. A spill or leak from a storage vessel can have serious consequences for the environment, site operations and business reputation,” he said. “By providing a robust barrier between chemicals and the surrounding environment, secondary containment systems help organisations protect their assets, support regulatory responsibilities and minimise the risks associated with accidental releases.”

ControlTech brings together nine systems across three chemical‑resistance profiles, each engineered to withstand specific exposures and operating conditions. The range includes epoxy systems for moderate‑risk areas, novolac epoxy systems for more aggressive environments, and vinyl ester systems for the most demanding applications involving highly corrosive substances. Each profile offers multiple build‑ups to match mechanical demands, spill scenarios and operational realities, enabling operators to tailor specifications to their site conditions.

Secondary containment itself is a fundamental safeguard: a sealed, chemical‑resistant barrier applied to floors, bunds, tank bases and loading areas to prevent hazardous substances from penetrating the substrate or reaching the environment if primary storage fails. Effective systems protect people, infrastructure and watercourses while reducing the risk of regulatory penalties, costly clean‑ups and reputational harm.

Harrison said the structured approach behind ControlTech is designed to simplify decision‑making for operators. “The ControlTech range of systems brings our established coating technologies into a clearly defined range, helping customers identify the right solution for the chemicals, operating conditions and risks at their facilities.”

Beyond traditional containment zones, the technology can also support wider industrial challenges, from upgrading ageing infrastructure to protecting high‑traffic operational areas and mitigating splash‑zone corrosion. Its versatility reflects the growing need for holistic containment strategies across industrial sites, not just around tanks and pipes.