PPG Industries Inc., based in Pittsburgh, said Wednesday it launched a cleaning solvent recycling project in partnership with SAIC General Motors.
“PPG continues to lead the industry with innovations such as precision application, 4-Wet sealants process technology, expanded bake electrocoats, and heavy-metal-free solutions,” said Tony Gu, PPG product engineering director at Automotive Coatings Asia. “These technologies help automakers reduce carbon emissions, minimize waste, and improve efficiency while meeting stringent environmental standards.”
The initiative, unveiled at the recent 2025 CARES Conference in Suzhou, China, introduces a circular economy model for solvents used in automotive painting that enables the reuse of up to 80 percent by weight of waste solvents collected in OEM paint shops, a move PPG says marks a major step forward in sustainable automotive manufacturing.
“By collaborating with partners across the value chain, PPG is accelerating the transition to a circular economy, driving the future of mobility toward greater sustainability,” Gu said.
Specifically, the project utilizes advanced distillation and purification technology to separate valuable components from waste solvents, repurposing them as raw materials for coatings or as reclaimed solvents. Compared to existing recycling techniques, the new method reduces the volume of hazardous waste requiring disposal, said PPG.
Through the joint initiative, PPG and SAIC General Motors will recycle more than 430 tons of waste solvents annually.
“At SAIC General Motors, we’re committed to working hand-in-hand with our supplier partners to drive innovation in sustainable solutions,” said Xu Xinghu, SGM painting process engineering manager. “Through collaboration, we aim to unlock new possibilities and make meaningful progress toward our shared environmental goals.”