Dogged by asbestos claims, United Gilsonite Laboratories (UGL) has filed a voluntary petition for Chapter 11 bankruptcy reorganization in a Pennsylvania U.S. district court. The paint and coatings manufacturer is seeking court approval to establish a trust fund to settle outstanding claims and an injunction preventing asbestos-related awards except though the trust.

UGL used asbestos in joint compound but discontinued the practice more than 30 years ago, according to the company.