PPG and 4Plastic Launch Next-Generation Texture Refinishing System for Plastic Repairs

PPG’s SEM® Products division, in partnership with 4Plastic, has introduced a new generation of texture coatings designed specifically for repairing non-painted, textured plastic components.

“As automakers increasingly replace traditionally painted panels with textured bare plastic external components, the collision repair industry needs solutions to accurately restore these surfaces after damage,” said Larry Trexler, PPG global allied products technical market support manager, Automotive Refinish. “It is a significant challenge for repair shops, insurers and OEM programs, as textured component replacements often do not match the existing faded plastics on a vehicle, so the ability to repair and retexture them has become a high-value capability.”

The SEM and 4Plastic texture range effectively meets industry needs with advanced coatings engineered to replicate common OEM textures. Through the 4Plastic App, available on both iOS and Android, body shops can easily identify and match the correct texture for each repair.

Extensive internal testing demonstrated the system’s outstanding durability and performance. Accelerated weathering tests confirmed excellent environmental resistance, showing only minimal gloss variations that mimic natural OEM aging—delivering a true OEM-grade finish built to withstand everyday use. Adhesion tests verified a strong, long-lasting bond, while abrasion and solvent resistance tests showed that the coating maintains integrity and color even under demanding conditions.

Designed for efficiency and ease of use, the products enable fast application and reliable, repeatable results, allowing even entry-level technicians to achieve high-quality finishes. This innovation makes textured component repair more cost-effective and time-efficient, minimizing replacement needs and reducing overall repair cycle times.

“OEMs have moved decisively toward textured plastics as part of their design and manufacturing strategy, but the repair industry has not had an advanced system to restore those textures accurately until now,” said Michael LoPrete, managing director of 4Plastic. “The SEM and 4Plastic range bring together scientific formulation, rigorous testing and practical usability, giving collision centers a true repair-first option for textured components. The ability to restore these parts rather than replace them not only reduces costs but also supports ongoing sustainability initiatives by preventing plastic waste and reducing parts-related emissions.”

The SEM and 4Plastic product line will be supported by a range of specialized tools and equipment developed to make plastic part repairs faster and easier. Among these is an innovative tool engineered for efficiently pushing out dents and refining bodylines on plastic bumpers. The complete product range is now available throughout the U.S. and Canadian markets.

Source: PPG