R&D: Behind the scenes at Geocel

What feeds the research and development programme at Geocel?

Our research and development programme is fed by a range of requirements. We may have an idea for a brand-new product, or perhaps have a gap to fill in our portfolio. Alternatively, a regulatory change may cause us to reformulate an existing product so that we are still compliant, or perhaps a raw materials supply shortage might also make a reformulation necessary. No day is ever the same.

How are Geocel products tested?

There are two ways we test all our products here at Geocel. First, we carry out lab spec tests for qualities like rheology (how easily the formula is to gun out) and also adhesion. We would then carry out performance testing depending on intended product application. With sanitary silicones for example that might be microbiology testing to see whether the formulation will allow mould growth in sanitary settings or whether it will inhibit that growth - which would be ideal.

What is involved in the development of a new product?

It depends where the idea for the product or project has come from, but we would start with a paper exercise and putting raw materials together in a formula. This might involve researching new raw materials or sticking to our existing materials toolbox and just varying the quantities to make it work for what we need.

How long does it take before a new product hits the shelves?

Product development time can vary depending on the end use of the product and the type of testing involved; but generally, we would spend a month or two on formulation and lab spec testing alone. We would then take the best formulas developed during the experimental work and look to optimise those by thoroughly putting them through their paces with performance testing.

Following that we have what we call the Stability Studies Programme which monitors how our Geocel products will react while they’re on the shelf, as we want to make sure they can still be extruded from the cartridge when a customer comes to buy them. Finally, we would scale up production and carry out factory trials. If everything gets the thumbs up there, we will start on production.

What do you think makes Geocel products stand out?

At Geocel, we have a good range of materials in our toolbox so we can optimise those to suit very specific end uses, whether that be adhesive, sanitary applications or hybrid. Combine that with the wide range of knowledge and expertise that we have in the team when it comes to sealant technologies. Plus, we really put our products through their paces and do a full programme of performance testing, so we have the confidence that they will always perform as advertised.

Have any products scored particularly highly in testing?

We have a couple of standout products; for example, Trade Mate Sanitary Seal which excels over other standard silicones in terms of microbiology and can stop mould growth. Another one is our hybrid polymer, THE WORKS PRO, which can adhere to a very wide range of substrates, wet or dry.

What is your favourite Geocel product?

One of my favourites is Painters Mate Flexible Filler. I’ve used it all over my own house - every gap in the skirting boards, round doorframes, it’s all been filled with Painters Mate. It’s really easy to gun out of the cartridge can be overpainted quickly to leave an excellent finish.

What are you working on at the moment?

I can’t tell you exactly what we are working on at the moment – it’s top secret! We are however looking at our hybrid formulas and also doing some formulation work on our water-based adhesives and acrylics.

Click here to find out more about Trade Mate Sanitary Seal, Painters Mate and THE WORKS PRO.