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PROPOSAL:

Issue RFP for Phase II Assessment Study of Architectural Coatings

SYNOPSIS:

The 1997 AQMP Control Measure #CTS-07, "Further Emission Reductions from Architectural Coatings", Phase II, proposes an additional 33% reduction in VOC emissions from the use of architectural coatings. This action is to issue an RFP to develop additional information for this rulemaking. Funding for this study, not to exceed $150,000, is available in the FY 1997-98 Budget.

COMMITTEE:

Administrative, Stationary Source, February 20, 1998, Recommended for Approval, with stipulation to meet with industry

RECOMMENDED ACTION:

Approve the release of the attached RFP for a Phase II Assessment Study of Architectural Coatings, in an amount not to exceed $150,000.
Seek industry co-sponsorship to the degree practicable.

Barry R. Wallerstein, D.Env.
Acting Executive Officer

Background

The purpose of Rule 1113 - Architectural Coatings is to reduce VOC emissions from the application of coatings to any stationary structure or its appurtenances. The current daily emissions from application of Architectural and Industrial Maintenance (AIM) coatings are estimated at 58 tons.

Industry members, mainly manufacturers and contractors, have made seven assertions, as follows, regarding the use of new low-VOC formulations:

- More Thickness - More Thinning - More Priming - More Topcoats - More Touch-Ups and Repair Work - More Frequent Recoating - More Reactivity

These seven issues focus on two main points. The first six issues all assert that the new low-VOC formulations, either solvent based or waterborne, are lacking in performance characteristics such that their use will result in more coating usage and an overall increase in VOC emissions over a period of time. The seventh issue is based on their contention that solvents in waterborne coatings are more reactive than solvents in solvent based coatings and, therefore, result in more ozone formation. The proposed study will help to resolve some of these issues.

1997 Air Quality Management Plan (AQMP)

An evaluation by the contractor is necessary to implement the 1997 AQMP Control Measure #CTS-07, Phase II, which calls for a 33% reduction in VOC emissions beyond the 10.3 tons per day (tpd) reduction adopted in November 1996 as part of Phase I. This additional VOC reduction of 20 tpd is one of the largest emissions reductions planned from any control measure.

An informational study focusing on the coating categories for Phase II, listed in Table 1, was recently completed by Eastern Michigan University. The survey generally found commercial availability of solvent based, waterborne, and zero-VOC coatings for most of the coating categories. The survey recommended additional performance information be obtained, since the contractor was unable to obtain such information. This information will be helpful in assessing future VOC limits and compliance dates.

Rule 1113 VOC Limits

The current VOC limits for the categories to be studied are summarized in the following table:

The AQMD requires assistance in evaluating the performance of AIM coatings. This is necessary to implement Phase II of the 1997 AQMP Control Measure #CTS-07.

Proposal

Staff has prepared the attached RFP to solicit comparative study projects in support of the 1997 AQMP Control Measure #CTS-07. The objective of the Phase II Assessment Study of Architectural Coatings RFP is to conduct side-by-side comparisons for the coating categories listed in Table 1, and assess the current state of the application and durability properties of the coatings.

The proposals will be evaluated according to the criteria defined in the attached RFP.

Based on direction by the Administrative Committee, on February 26, 1998, staff met with industry representatives to discuss this RFP. Industry offered to potentially contribute a 50% share of the overall cost for the study, and suggested to expand the study to include additional items of concern to the industry. Staff has agreed to expand the scope of the proposed study and is seeking industry participation to the degree practicable. To this end, staff will form a steering committee, that includes industry representatives, as well as, other interested parties, to oversee the technical aspects of the study. In addition, staff will be seeking a joint statement of principles with industry regarding management of the study.

Staff has incorporated comments received from the industry into this RFP. In the FY 1997-98 Budget, the revised amount of $150,000, is available for the proposed study.

Resource Impacts

Sufficient funds are available in the FY 1997-98 Budget. This includes funding under Coatings Research, Technology Assessment Studies, and Control Equipment Evaluation contracts listed in the budget. The District will potentially receive reimbursement of up to $75,000 from the industry if co-sponsorship occurs. Staff will report on the possible availability of co-funding at the time the contract is awarded.

Attachments

RFP 9798-34

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