AkzoNobel has installed hydrogen-powered spray booths at its new automotive training center near Brussels, Belgium.

This new facility forms part of the company's efforts to enhance its global network of over 40 Automotive Training Centers (ATCs).

Powered by hydrogen, the combi spray booth is designed to exceed local and legislative environmental standards.

AkzoNobel automotive and specialty coatings business director Patrick Bourguignon said: “The industry of the future requires painters of the future who are fully conversant with the latest technologies and techniques.

“By increasing the size of our Belgian facility by almost a third, we can accommodate more technology – such as the new spray booth – and train more people.

“We’ll be able to show bodyshop personnel how the latest technologies can reduce carbon emissions, lower drying times and consume less energy, helping to drive the industry in a more sustainable direction.”

The booth is equipped for repairs and features an all-in-one repairs workstation.

It incorporates an advanced air filtration system utilising "active carbon" to cleanse volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the painting process.

Additionally, a HEPA air filtration system ensures that up to 99% of clean air is released back into the environment.

The training center, which is 30% larger than its predecessor, aims for BREEAM certification, aligning with AkzoNobel's goal to cut carbon emissions throughout its value chain by 2030.

AkzoNobel's ATCs offer a range of training programmes, including application, product and system training, as well as new digital color processes.

The courses focus on enhancing quality and process efficiency and includes training for repairing radar-capable vehicles and electric vehicles.

Bourguignon added: “By further upskilling painters, bodyshop managers and OEM engineers on a new generation of coatings and technologies, we can help them improve operational efficiency and reduce their own carbon emissions.

“The investments we’re making in our ATCs will therefore address a growing global skills shortage, while also helping us set a new benchmark for sustainable practices in our industry.”