Content about Chemistry

The new Non-Penetrating LCD Moisture Meter with Tricolor Bar Graph from General Tools & Instruments offers professionals and DIYers a powerful and affordable tool, according to the New York City-based manufacturer.

The MMD7NP measures the moisture content of hardwood, softwood, drywall, masonry or concrete. It can also detect moisture below the surface of carpets and subflooring; and locating water leaks above ceilings, below floors or behind walls. 

A new study of the impact of rising gasoline prices on consumer spending shows that gasoline prices of $4.25 per gallon could cut estimated 2012 retail sales growth from its current 5.7% pace to an anemic 2.3%. 

Fastener maker Simpson Strong-Tie has announced the acquisition of Fox Industries, a manufacturer of cementitious, epoxy, urethane, elastomeric and polyester coatings, grouts, mortars, adhesives, sealers, sealants, and membranes and custom manufactured fiberglass parts for the marine, industrial, transportation, commercial building and public works industries. The Baltimore-based company was founded in 1969.

Wilmington, Ohio-based TimberTech expanded its fastening options by rolling out a stainless steel TopLoc fastener. 

Most coastal regions require stainless steel fasteners to reduce the likelihood of corrosion that leads to rot and failure, according to the company. Stainless steel is able to withstand more inclement weather because it is less brittle than carbon steel.

Demand in the wood-alternative decking market is driven by aesthetics, according to Fiberon marketing director Edie Kello.

Fiberon, the manufacturer of PVC and composite decking and railing products, is introducing an expanded color palette for the new Pro-Tect capped composite decking line. The new Pro-Tect Chestnut and Gray Birch colors add exotic aesthetics to low- maintenance outdoor living products.

PPG Industries, one of the leading manufacturers of paint and architectural coatings, has released a line of zero-VOC (volatile organic compound) paint for the commercial market. Speedhide, an existing line, will now offer Speedhide zero interior paint as a one-stop solution for contractors, building owners and facility managers looking for durability, affordability and long-lasting performance, according to the company.

Bradford, Pa.-based W.R. Case & Sons Cutlery Co. launched its Tec X collection, described as a brand extension with an emphasis on modern design.

The 28 individual models in the collection include features such as one-handed opening and closing, pocket clips, anodized aluminum handles, AUS8 blades and titanium coatings.

Griffin, Ga.-based Osmose announced a new online American Institute of Architects (AIA) Continuing Education Program course titled, Micronized Technology for Pressure Treated Wood. 

The course for design professionals familiarizes them with wood as a sustainable building material, the pressure treating process, environmental certifications and other benefits of micronized copper pressure treated wood products, according to Osmose. 

AZEK Building Products, a manufacturer of PVC-based molding, trim and decking, has entered into a strategic alliance with VAST Enterprises, a maker of composite masonry products. Under the agreement, AZEK Building Products has purchased an interest in VAST and will make the VAST brand available to AZEK's distribution network. AZEK and VAST will collaborate on sales and marketing initiatives to drive brand awareness among architects and contractors, according to the announcement.

Milwaukee Tool continues to expand its hand tool offering with the introduction of six new snips that are made with corrosion resistant metal to protect the tools from rust and deliver durability.

“Not only do the new snips provide best-in-class durability, they are also designed to uphold the highest level of ease of use and safety,” said Tim Albrecht, director of product marketing - hand tools for Milwaukee Tool Corp.

The "Consumer watch" section of the Dashboard shows gas prices rose a nickel last week, the unemployment rate was unchanged, and consumer confidence is plummeting.

A man was arrested in Newark, Del., after police say he unsuccessfully tried to steal tools and copper wire from a display at a Home Depot store.