Henkel Launches APNR 2.0 Metal Pretreatment Technology
The new adhesion promoter technology aims to reduce water and energy consumption in architectural aluminum operations.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Chemistry
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Henkel has introduced its APNR 2.0 metal pretreatment technology to help industrial processors lower their environmental impact. The system streamlines production by eliminating traditional conversion baths in architectural aluminum operations.
Why it matters
The technology was developed to address rising energy and water costs while helping metal processors meet increasingly stringent global environmental requirements. It aims to improve operational efficiency for manufacturers facing these resource constraints.
The APNR 2.0 technology utilizes an EcoFlex control unit to manage a metered spray application, achieving up to 50% lower process water consumption and 20% less compressed air demand. This system replaces conventional conversion baths.
The players
Henkel
Headquartered in Düsseldorf, Germany, this chemical and consumer goods company provides industrial adhesives and surface treatment solutions.
The details
The technology applies a metered spray of adhesion promoter directly to metal surfaces at the end of the production line. By eliminating the need for a downstream rinse stage, the process significantly reduces the complexity of architectural aluminum treatment.
Timeline
Henkel introduced the APNR 2.0 system on October 29, 2026.
The original APNR technology first entered the market in 2015.
The Big Picture
This development follows a pattern set by industry efforts to meet the European Green Deal's industrial emissions targets by reducing resource-heavy chemical processes. It marks a shift toward cleaner, more automated chemical application in heavy manufacturing.
This technology could lead to lower manufacturing costs for architectural aluminum products, potentially influencing long-term pricing for building materials. Improved production efficiency may also reduce the overall carbon footprint of high-volume metal processing operations.
The takeaway
Industrial firms can significantly cut utility overhead by replacing traditional liquid-intensive conversion baths with precision spraying technologies. Managers should evaluate the potential for water and air savings when upgrading metal treatment lines.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest innovations in Chemistry.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Products Finishing.
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