Research
Gypsum Panels LaboratoryThe Gypsum Panels Lab combines a unique blend of chemistry and engineering with years of industry experience, focusing specifically on all gypsum panels under the CGC Sheetrock® and CGC Securock® Brand panels. The research, product and processes development and patented formulations creation that takes place in the lab stand together as an integral element of CGC’s stature as a recognized leader in the gypsum industry.Ceilings LaboratoryThe Ceilings Laboratory makes use of a variety of the latest technology platforms, including X-Technology, cast, water-fitting, fiberglass, wood and metal in its development of our cutting-edge ceiling panels. The lab is responsible for product and process development of some of our most well-known ceiling products and solutions, including CGC Donn® Brand Acoustical Suspension Systems.Performance Surfaces LaboratoryTeams in our Performance Surfaces Lab work to develop formulas for products used in the finishing of panels. The research, innovation and product development connect the understanding of manufacturing capability and regional preferences to direct formula development. Teams work specifically with major CGC performance surface products, including CGC Sheetrock® Brand All Purpose Joint Compound, CGC Sheetrock® Brand Paper-Faced Plastic Corner Bead, CGC Sheetrock® Brand Joint Tape, CGC Sheetrock® Brand First Coat Primer, CGC Sheetrock® Brand Tuff-Hide™ Primer-Surfacer, CGC Imperial® Basecoat Plaster and CGC Diamond® Veneer Finish.Performance Substrates LaboratoryThe Performance Substrates Lab focuses research and development efforts on the chemistries and technologies relevant to cement and composite panels, including CGC products like CGC Durock® Cement Board, USG Structural Panels, CGC Durock® Tile Membrane, CGC Fiberock® Aqua-Tough™ Panels and CGC Levelrock® Floor Underlayment.Analytical LaboratoryThe CIC’s Analytical Lab plays a critical role in supporting the safety efforts of USG and CGC by facilitating the material safety assessment process. Our chemists characterize materials, including chemistry methods and instrumental tools such as X-ray diffraction, X-ray fluorescence and scanning electron microscopy. Contacts are also maintained with outside organizations to access specialized analytical techniques where needed.Technology
The Corporate Innovation Center (CIC) utilizes core technologies that enable the creation of new products and processes and improve established ones. Our experts utilize unique fire, acoustical, structural and environmental testing capabilities to evaluate products and systems. Additionally, we employ chemical analysis and material characterization to ensure product safety and quality. The CIC incorporates four core technologies:Process TechnologyDevelopment and ultimate scale-up of solutions in both methods and formulations from the work bench to the manufacturing facility.Engineered MaterialsComposite products, like gypsum wallboard, cement board and acoustical ceiling tiles, designed for specific performance properties, such as fire, acoustics, environmental and aesthetics.Formulated ProductsDevelopment of finishing products, such as coatings, joints, compounds and textures, all of which are custom formulated by region to meet a wide range of environmental conditions.Building Sciences & Construction TechnologiesEvaluation of materials behavior for fire performance, sustainability, moisture resistance, heat transfer and noise reduction to ensure the most high-performance final product.