2025 Agenda

Safety Data Sheet Authoring Made Easy - Streamline SDS Authoring and Distribution Tasks

Simplify and automate the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) authoring and document distribution process with optimized workflows and seamless integration with your ERP systems. Whether you are a formulator, distributor or industrial user of hazardous chemical products in North America or worldwide, you will learn how to easily create, manage and distribute your organization’s Safety Data Sheets and workplace labels in accordance with the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) in your key commercial markets.

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Assessment of a Sustainable White Pigment Alternative for Cool Roof and DTM Coatings

This presentation provides a comprehensive evaluation of a new white pigment as a partial substitute for TiO₂ in cool roof and direct-to-metal coatings. The work highlighted is a product of independent testing conducted by U.S. Silica with collaborative research performed alongside Lubrizol and CRGI (Coatings Research Group), providing a robust assessment of the new white pigment capabilities. Results demonstrate that substituting 10%–50% of TiO₂ with the new white pigment sustains or improves critical performance metrics such as weatherability, opacity, tint-strength and solar reflectivity. Furthermore, the new white pigment integrates seamlessly into standard formulations, offering a cost-effective and reliable solution to mitigate supply chain risks while enhancing coating performance.

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Advancements in Surfactant-Free Hydrophobic Additives for Enhanced Water Repellency

Water-based hydrophobic additives are widely used to protect substrates from water, preferred over solvent-based versions for being more eco-friendly and easier to handle. These additives naturally repel water but require stabilization in water through emulsification. The emulsification process combines immiscible liquids using surfactants. Surfactants have both hydrophilic (water-attracting) and lipophilic (oil-attracting) properties, allowing them to interact with both phases and create a stable dispersion.

Surfactants, however, can slightly reduce the effectiveness of hydrophobic additives by introducing hydrophilic properties, affecting water repellency. Recent advancements have led to the development of surfactant-free emulsification techniques, creating more effective water-based hydrophobic additives. These surfactant-free emulsions enhance hydrophobic performance by forming a more uniform and stable hydrophobic layer without surfactant interference. This improves water repellency and durability, as surfactants no longer alter surface tension or introduce unwanted substrate interactions.

Surfactant-free emulsions are versatile and effective in a wide range of applications, including the impregnation of natural stones, concrete, bricks, wood, glass substrates, plastics, and paint and coating surfaces. The absence of surfactants and fluorocarbon ingredients in these emulsions enhances their environmental compatibility, making it a sustainable choice for surface protection.

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Closing the Expertise Gap: How GenAI is Transforming Technical Sales in Paints and Coatings

30% of your workforce could retire in the next five years. Is your sales team ready? In coatings and specialty chemicals, technical expertise isn’t optional — it’s the engine behind every deal. Our analysis of 100 chemical companies shows that sales reps generate 65% more revenue when supported by strong product expertise. Simply put: when expert support scales, so does revenue. But scaling that support is harder than ever. Reps are navigating sprawling product lines, rising regulatory demands and post-M&A complexity — all while automation increases customer touchpoints without increasing headcount. And with a “silver tsunami” of retirements looming, that hard-earned knowledge is disappearing fast.

Meanwhile, reps spend up to 20% of their time just searching for information — not selling (McKinsey). The result? Slower cycles, missed opportunities and uneven performance. The coatings, adhesives, materials and chemicals industries need a new approach. Thoughtfully implemented, Generative AI offers just that: a way to preserve expert knowledge, increase sales consistency and empower every rep with the insights they need to win. In this session, Nikhil Kapadia, shares what works — and what doesn’t — when applying GenAI to technical sales.
Topics include:

1. Bridging the Expertise Gap: Preserve, Verify and Scale Technical Know-How
2. Top GenAI Use Cases for Coatings Sales Reps
3. A Practical Framework for GenAI Adoption in Commercial Teams

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Organo-Siloxane Surfactant as Substitute for Forever Chemicals - Reactive Versus Nonreactive

Perfluorinated and Polyfluorinated Surfactants (PFAS) have been called “forever chemicals,” and there is interest in replacing them with nonfluorinated surfactants. There are numerous benefits for adding fluorinated systems to coatings such as water and oil repellency, chemical resistance, and durability. Our study focuses on the replacement of PFAS with both a reactive and nonreactive organo-siloxane to lower the surface energy. Reducing the surface energy of the elastomer leads to improved leveling, lower friction and improved abrasion resistance. Model epoxy-based coating systems will be reviewed to demonstrate the efficacy of organo-siloxanes to replace perfluorinated surfactants or PTFE powder. PEL-SIL surfactants with varying functionality are evaluated for potential to improve the durability per abrasion resistance of this model coating system. The level of each surfactant was varied to determine the impact on abrasion and other key performance characteristics.

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Harnessing Generative AI for Defoamer Innovation: DyStar’s Integration of ChatGPT in Coatings Additive Development

Designing effective defoamers for modern coatings systems requires navigating a complex landscape of chemical compatibility, regulatory compliance and performance metrics. To accelerate this process, DyStar has integrated ChatGPT, a large language model developed by OpenAI, into its R&D pipeline for additive development — specifically targeting the formulation of next-generation defoamers. This presentation explores how DyStar’s formulation scientists and chemists are leveraging ChatGPT for rapid hypothesis generation, synthesis route planning and functional group analysis, supported by real-time access to spectral databases. By interfacing the model with curated IR and MS spectral data, researchers are able to validate structure-property predictions and cross-reference proposed molecules against known defoamer performance benchmarks. This integration enables faster down-selection of candidate chemistries and more informed discussions at the bench.

We’ll present case studies demonstrating how ChatGPT has contributed to the ideation and optimization of novel low-VOC, silicone-free defoamers with improved persistence in waterborne coatings. Additionally, the session will address key considerations around data fidelity, model limitations, and best practices for chemist-AI collaboration. Attendees will gain insights into how generative AI can be purposefully applied to augment chemical intuition and streamline additive development within coatings R&D.

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Polymeric Microspheres for Haptic, Gloss and Wear Modification of Coatings

Polymer-based microspheres can be used in coatings to enhance tactile properties, fingerprint resistance, gloss control and surface durability. Size, hardness, concentration and distribution influence how a surface feels – ranging from soft and velvety to dry and grippy. Widely used in packaging, automotive and electronics, polymeric microspheres create pleasant, functional surfaces with soft-touch or antislip effects. Microspheres also reduce fingerprint visibility by introducing micro-roughness and lowering surface energy. In gloss control, microspheres scatter light to produce uniform matte to satin finishes. Harder microspheres improve scratch and abrasion resistance, and act as microscopic spacers, improving antiblocking. Common applications include displays, furniture, packaging, automotive interiors and floor coatings. Their versatility allows precise tuning of optical, tactile and mechanical surface properties – often achieved in a single step without major changes to the formulation. This presentation describes the use of several classes of polymeric microspheres in the modification of surface properties of coatings.

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Novel Rheology Booster for Hydrophilic and Hydrophobically Treated Fumed Silica

The use of fumed silica in coatings has been extensively studied as one of the most versatile and efficient rheology enhancers, improving properties such as sag resistance, pigment stability and film reinforcement of many coatings systems. Their ability to form strong hydrogen bonding links interactively with adjacent silica aggregates, as well as with binders and other pigments and fillers present in a coating formulation, effectively provides a strong pseudoplastic behavior and rebound back when shear force is removed. This quick viscosity recovery is the basis for efficient sag resistance, and in many cases, this effect can be enhanced by increasing the dosage of silica particles. However, some side effects can be present, such as settling of silica particles, poor stability or reduced transparency and gloss, which are undesired, especially in automotive and gel-coat applications.

This presentation presents a novel polyetheramide additive that synergistically interacts with both hydrophilic and hydrophobic-treated fumed silica grades. It’s strong bridging capability optimizes the thixotropic effect in various solvent-based coating formulations, through increased hydrogen bonding interactions. Rheology measurements also demonstrate that sag resistance is not well correlated with a high low-shear viscosity, and show that quick viscosity recovery becomes more critical to avoid sagging after applying high shear stress, e.g., brushing or spraying. The optimized synergy between this new polyetheramide and fumed silicas minimizes the viscosity rebound time and significantly outperforms other classical synergist chemistries such as diol-terminated polyamides. The added functionality of use of a synergist is it can be post added to tune rheology after the fumed silica is dispersed to facilitate easy batch adjustments.

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Optimizing Your Coating Formulation for Concrete Protection

Optimizing cost efficiency while enhancing performance for optimal formulation presents a dynamic design challenge. Do all concrete surfaces require identical performance protection? In this presentation, we will guide you through a comprehensive selection process checklist, addressing key factors such as proper adhesion, hardness, blush and chemical resistance, hot tire pick-up resistance, and more. Additionally, we will explore how compositional values impact your formulation, including resin selection, volatile organic content and additives. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced formulator, join us as we delve into strategies for optimizing your coating formulation to ensure superior concrete protection.

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Hybrid Mineral Matting Aid for Sustainable Powder Coating Applications

Engineered performance minerals are based on naturally occurring materials that offer a remarkably low carbon footprint compared to synthetic polymers, making them an ideal choice for sustainable industrial applications. Imery's recent innovation in engineered minerals has enabled the creation of hybrid mineral-based additives tailored for powder coating applications. The innovation combines the diverse morphological properties of minerals with superhydrophobic surface characteristics to deliver high-performance solutions for demanding applications. Specifically, the hybrid mineral additive serves as a high efficiency matting aid in powder coatings, offering enhanced functionality in both standard TGIC and low-cure formulations. The presentation will delve into the technical aspects of this innovation, highlighting how the unique combination of mineral cores and surface hydrophobicity contributes to superior matting effects, improved mechanical properties, optimized coating aesthetics, and reduced CO2 footprint.

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Novel Polymeric Dispersants for Improved Dispersion of Polycyclic Pigments

The latest developments in polymeric dispersants for polycyclic pigments enables reduced grind time, increased pigment loads, improved viscosity and stability, and excellent color properties. Organic pigments such as perylene and high-surface-area carbon black, especially in high-performance applications, can be difficult to adequately disperse and stabilize. Unique anchoring chemistry allows for strong adsorption to these pigment surfaces while finely optimized dispersant structure allows for efficient wetting, milling and stabilization. These technologies can significantly aid in the breakup of agglomerated particles, in some cases even eliminating the need for traditional media milling. Pigment loads can be increased beyond traditional levels, even in nano-dispersion applications, improving overall cycle time without sacrificing viscosity or stability. Color properties including jetness, color strength and transparency can be enhanced. This presentation will highlight these dispersant developments for difficult-to-disperse organic pigments and carbon blacks in aqueous coatings.

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Can Simulation Tools and Physicochemical Properties Guide the Selection of Additives?

The selection of wetting and dispersing agents in pigment concentrate formulations is a nontrivial task. The vast array of available products and technologies, coupled with a frequent lack of adequate technical information, makes the formulator’s job extensive, intricate, time-consuming and inefficient due the lack of rationalization in the use of these additives.

The present study aims to demonstrate how the use, development and implementation of physicochemical methodologies, combined with digital tools and high-throughput screening, can generate highly useful data for formulators in the additive selection and formula optimization process, making it faster, smarter and more efficient. The first and most comprehensive part of the work illustrates how physicochemical techniques and parameters applied to surfactants can be utilized in the selection of wetting and dispersing agents.

The second part of the work is focused on the development of a method to create adsorption isotherms and on their use. This data is extremely valuable as it allows for comparisons between additives from different technologies even when the chemical structure is unknown. The study demonstrated how the curves and parameters obtained from this technique can help formulators understand which additive has higher affinity for a given pigment, aiding in the selection of dispersing agents with higher potential to provide good performance and longer stability. Additionally, this methodology helped to understand the versatility of the additive, clarifying whether the same molecule could be used with different types of pigments.

The final part of the work aims to apply Hansen solubility parameters (HSP) to evaluate the compatibility of wetting or dispersing agents with pigments. The current focus is on using high-throughput screening to determine the HSP values of a variety of wetting and dispersing agents – such as surfactants and polymerics with or without charges. After the parameters of the additives and the pigments of interest are obtained, formulators could use these data to simulate the interaction between the additive and the pigment, enabling the selection of the most promising candidates for experimental evaluation.

The last goal of the work is to provide initial data on the HSP parameters determination and compatibility simulations to then correlate with experimental performance data of pigment concentrates, such as tinting strength, rub-out and stability. Once the correlation is proven, this methodology will allow a quick determination of parameters without requiring knowledge of product’s composition and will aid the development of better coating formulation.

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Hazards of Static Electricity in Hazardous Areas

This presentation will focus on static electricity and the hazard it poses within industrial process areas utilizing flammable and combustible material. Utilizing our extensive knowledge of NFPA77, the presentation will start off with some fundamental knowledge of static charge generation and how this takes place in the industrial setting. Following this brief education we will dive into some specific applications common to the coatings industry and what solutions are being seen most commonly today. More often than not these are simple mechanical clamps and cables that operators hope are in good working order to achieve a metal-to-metal connection of 10 Ohms or less per NFPA77. We will then address how the use of a monitoring system offering visual indication to the operator removes that “what if” factor and ensures that a good metal-to-metal connection has been achieved. Putting a light on a clamp may seem rudimentary, but we assure you that it makes a huge difference when your operator can know they are working in safe conditions and removes any doubt that they're at risk of a static discharge.

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Innovations in Silicone Chemistry: Unlocking the Potential of MQ and DTQ Resins in Coatings

Silicone MQ and DTQ resins are integral to the formulation of many high-performance coatings, offering exceptional properties such as enhanced durability, chemical resistance and improved weatherability. We aim to explore the unique chemical structures of MQ and DTQ resins, which help contribute to their superior performance in both decorative and protective coatings. The review also examines how subtle modifications of their chemical structure can lead to changes in curing processes, gloss retention, mechanical properties and the ability to withstand harsh environmental conditions. The presentation further investigates their role in promoting sustainability within the coatings sector, highlighting silicone MQ and DTQ resins in the potential development of eco-friendly formulations with reduced solvent content and low VOC emissions.

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Influence of Formulation Variables on the Performance of Water-Based Direct-to-Metal Coatings

Direct-to-metal (DTM) coatings are essential for protecting metal substrates. Due to increased regulatory scrutiny of solventborne coatings, there has been a shift over the past decade towards water-based systems with lower VOC content. However, formulating water-based DTM coatings is challenging because water can accelerate corrosion on metal surfaces. The choice of resin and additives significantly influences the final coating performance properties.

This study employs a 4-factor fractional factorial design of experiments (DOE) to investigate the effects of coalescent, dispersant, pH buffer agent and corrosion inhibitor on the performance of a waterborne DTM coating. The selected resin is a high solids styrene-acrylic emulsion formulated at less than 100 g/L VOC, offering high gloss, block resistance and strong adhesion to various metallic substrates. Our findings highlight the importance of selecting a resin designed for DTM applications that provides corrosion and water resistance while maintaining formulation versatility. The results demonstrate how the careful selection and combination of additives can significantly enhance the performance of water-based DTM coatings, making them a viable alternative to traditional solventborne systems.

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Next-Generation Acrylic-Urethane Dispersion for High-Performance Architectural Primers and Topcoats

In the architectural primer landscape, there are several types of primers that offer a range of performance with varying adhesion profiles and specialized needs like stain blocking. High-end primers are multifunctional with good topcoat compatibility and excellent adhesion under various conditions. A next-generation acrylic-urethane dispersion has been developed to meet the evolving demands of the market. Designed with a focus on low-VOC formulations, this resin combines environmental responsibility with outstanding performance across a broad range of substrates. This versatile polymer functions effectively as a primer or topcoat on wood, plastics and other challenging surfaces, offering excellent adhesion, ultrablocking characteristics, and superior resistance to water and hand oils. Suitable for both interior and exterior applications, this binder enables formulation flexibility from flat to semigloss finishes, making it ideal for diverse architectural and industrial uses.

This presentation will highlight the unique attributes of this acrylic-urethane dispersion through a comprehensive benchmarking study comparing its performance to other leading products in the market. Key evaluation metrics include early block resistance, water resistance, adhesion and overall durability. Results demonstrate its ability to deliver high-end aesthetics and long-lasting protection without compromising environmental standards — making it a standout solution for formulators seeking performance, versatility and compliance.

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Rheological Optimization of Latex Paints with Balanced Key Coating Properties

Interior latex paints should be suitable for application by various techniques, from brush, through roller to various forms of spraying. Rheological additives for house paints must also combine suitability for application at various levels of advancement in painting skills, both for DIY applications and for professional painters. Therefore, the selection of rheological additives and the balance of rheological properties in the low-, mid- and high-shear area must be optimal both in terms of viscosity and secondary rheological properties such as sagging, leveling or spattering. Rheological additives such as cellulose ethers, clays, acrylic or polyurethane thickeners must also not negatively affect the performance of coatings, especially in terms of gloss loss, scrubbability or cleanability in the case of easy-to-clean formulations. This presentation will discuss a number of case studies of the formulation of latex paints for interiors, showing how to use rheological additives to obtain perfect rheological properties of paints and coatings balanced with their participation, ensuring durability of the finish in terms of scrub resistance, gloss retention and cleansability, creating perfectly smooth coats resistant to daily stains.

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Scale Up: Common Challenges and How to Address Them

One of the most recurrent challenges faced by coatings manufacturers is the handoff from development of a new product to large-scale production. This is caused by three main factors: not having the correct equipment in the development process, not having a pilot plant and not understanding the capabilities of the equipment on the production floor. This presentation will outline the most common types of equipment available to the R&D laboratory and the production team and how to select the correct equipment for lab and production use. Give development team members a greater understanding of the capabilities of typical production equipment. An overview of common mistakes made during development and in production will be discussed, with methods to address them. Other topics include how to develop a proper pilot plant, and methods to improve communication between development and production.

Both development and production team members will leave with a better understanding of the scale up process, and a better platform for communicating and addressing challenges and concerns of their colleagues.

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Innovative Solutions: Replacing PFAS in Coatings for a Sustainable Future

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are commonly used for their water-, stain- and grease-resistant properties, are facing increasing regulatory restrictions due to their environmental persistence and links to serious health risks. The two categories of PFAS materials with the most urgent need for replacement in coatings are polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and fluorosurfactants. In both cases, the greatest challenge to replacement is matching the performance attributes that these fluorochemicals bring to a formulation. This presentation will outline the keys to successful replacement of PFAS in coatings by identifying and testing alternative additives that replicate benefits associated with PFAS such as surface slip, abrasion resistance, anti-block properties, and dirt pickup resistance, while preserving other critical properties of the original formulations. We will provide examples of PFAS-free additives, including wax additives and wetting agents, that have successfully matched or exceeded these attributes across multiple applications.

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Cure-on-Demand Technologies in the Coatings Industry

As industries demand faster, cleaner and more energy-efficient manufacturing processes, cure-on-demand (COD) technologies have emerged as a transformative solution within the coatings sector. These systems enable precise control over when and where curing occurs, using stimuli such as light, heat or chemical triggers to initiate polymerization on demand. This presentation explores the current landscape of COD technologies, including UV-curable systems, thermally activated materials, and dual-cure approaches, with a special focus on the innovative technique of frontal polymerization (FP).

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Developments in Aluminum Flake Technology for Chrome Replacement in Water-Based Coating Systems

Recent popularity of thin aluminum flakes for chrome replacement has stimulated development activities to push the limits of color and performance of these pigments in water-based systems. This presentation will explore the multiple options for surface treatments of these aluminum flakes and the effect these treatments have on final color, sparkle, opacity, gassing, dispersion, shear and chemical resistance in both interior and exterior coatings. Visual assessment and instrumental analysis of coatings containing these pigments will be discussed. Also addressed will be the options available for pigment carrier and delivery form, such as paste, powder and solvent-free granules, designed to perform in the most demanding low-VOC coating systems. Proper dispersion and formulating practices will also be explored.

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Exploring Solid Colorants: A Sustainable Alternative for Coating Formulation

As formulators respond to growing environmental and operational pressures, solid colorants are emerging as a timely innovation that bridges regulatory compliance with high-performance formulation. This presentation highlights our ongoing research into adapting extrusion-based techniques from the plastics industry to develop pigment dispersions tailored for both solvent- and water-based coatings.

We will present the current progress of our lab-scale development, including real-world case studies and collaborative testing with industry partners. Key formulation parameters — such as pigment particle size, carrier solubility and their influence on coating appearance and stability — will be examined in detail. Our findings offer valuable insights for formulators aiming to improve batch consistency, reduce environmental impact and design coatings that meet the evolving demands of modern manufacturing.

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Achieving Robust Sand Textures in Powder Coatings Formulations with PTFE-Free Additives

The current regulatory environment has led to increased pressure from regulators to stop the use of PTFE-type additives in coatings formulations. However, there are not a lot of raw material options in the market for a direct replacement of PTFE-type additives in powder coatings formulations. In this presentation we will highlight our unique PTFE-free additives and formulation approach that can effectively get similar type sand textures without the need of PTFE. Thus, achieving compliant formulations in powder coatings.

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Revolutionizing Coatings with Advanced Multifunctional Technologies

The coatings industry is evolving rapidly, driven by the demand for high-performance solutions that go beyond traditional protection. This session will discuss how multifunctional, customizable water-based and solvent-based formulations enhance and protect a wide array of materials by delving into the key benefits of all-new multifunctional coatings.

Attendees will gain insights into the formulation strategies, market trends and real-world applications that are redefining performance expectations across various industries. This event will also cover formulation options and application processes, highlighting how multifunctional coatings can simplify integration for manufacturers and offer solutions to modern coating challenges.

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High-Performance, Sustainable Wax-Based Surface Modifiers

There are increasing demands for higher performance, more sustainable coatings employing more natural materials with substantial health, safety and environmental properties. To address these challenges, raw material suppliers and coatings manufacturers are increasingly turning to water-based solutions that require efficient, environmentally friendly raw materials. The science behind key wax additive technologies leading to lower carbon footprints to meet these needs will be presented.

Innovative technologies will be presented that utilize unique waxes with a focus on performance, sustainability and reduced carbon footprint. These additives are used to provide coating advantages including water and oil repellency, early water resistance, block resistance, water beading, scratch and abrasion resistance, haptic properties, matting, and both slip and antislip performance. Novel coating additive features will be translated into specific advantages and benefits for coating formulators and end users.

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Waterborne Alkyds as a New Sustainable Coating Approach

The paint industry is shifting from solventborne to waterborne coatings, driven by the need to reduce volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and lower the overall environmental impact of coatings. Demand for greener products has positioned alkyd resins, known for their high bio-based content derived from vegetable oils, as a critical component in eco-friendly formulations. However, transitioning alkyds to waterborne forms while meeting VOC regulations requires the use of emulsifiers to achieve stable oil-in-water emulsions that maintain good performance in the formulated coatings.

This study will review a range of emulsifiers, both fossil-based and bio-based, that should target all types of alkyds, from short to long oil. The emulsification process was optimized using the phase inversion method, with a focus on key parameters including alkyd viscosity, degree of neutralization, emulsification temperature, rate of water addition and mixing techniques. The optimization of these factors proved to be essential for achieving a successful phase inversion and producing a long-term, stable waterborne emulsion with desirable appearance and application properties.

Both fossil-based and bio-based emulsifiers developed by Perstorp were rigorously tested against industry benchmarks using several industrially relevant resins, demonstrating comparable performance in key parameters such as emulsion stability, particle size distribution, viscosity and electrolyte resistance. Achieving robust formulations requires not only the careful selection of emulsifiers but also determining their optimal addition levels. The use of a new AI-based tool to support this approach will be further discussed: exploring the relationship between the emulsifiers’ hydrophobicity and hydrophilicity – both nonionic and ionic – and the ionic strength of the ionic emulsifiers in relation to the alkyd resin. Understanding and optimizing these interactions proved essential for forming stable waterborne emulsions.

The study demonstrates that by leveraging 100% renewable polyols as drop-in replacements for fossil-based polyols, it is possible to significantly increase the renewable content of the final product while achieving identical, high-level performance.

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Sustainable, Smart Corrosion Protection

Protective coatings are the first line of defense against corrosion, with corrosion inhibitors added to extend performance. Over the years, many effective inhibitors, such as lead and chromates, were found to be harmful to the environment and human health, and subsequently banned. The current corrosion inhibitor workhorse, zinc phosphate, is a known marine pollutant and doesn’t deliver the desired performance.

Smart particles are a NASA-developed new class of patented smart coating additives that impart high levels of corrosion resistance to solventborne, waterborne and powder protective coatings. The smart additives release environmentally friendly and effective corrosion inhibitors on-demand in response to the onset of corrosion itself, delivering targeted protection directly to corrosive sites. In laboratory corrosion and two-year atmospheric exposure testing at the NASA Kennedy Space Center corrosion test site, they have demonstrated outstanding corrosion protection performance in solventborne MIL-Spec and commercial coatings, potentially increasing protective coating lifetime up to 100%. These heavy-metal-free smart additives can be formulated into coatings or post-added. They have the potential to significantly reduce maintenance costs for the marine, oil and gas, defense, and infrastructure industries. As replacements for zinc and other harmful inhibitors, they minimize the impact of corrosion inhibitors to applicators and users, and the environment at end-of life disposal.

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Electric Field-Guided Precision Conformal Sprays

Electrospray deposition is a spray coating process that uses high voltage to generate charged droplets from a flowing solution or dispersion. Unlike other electrostatic processes, these self-repulsive droplets are small enough to be carried solely by the electric field, and they arrive at grounded targets nearly completely dry. This presentation outlines the unique capabilities of a recently discovered regime of electrospray. In self-limiting electrospray deposition (SLED), charge accumulates in the film during deposition, and eventually incoming material is repelled and redirected to uncoated regions of the target. This leads to a uniform thickness in 2D, and conformal coatings in 3D. The presentation will outline the fundamental science making this process possible, and some of the unique capabilities, including

1. tunability of the film’s surface area
2. the ability to achieve high efficiency on small, millimeter-sized targets
3. the ability to selectively target conductive features
4. the ability to include functional materials into the films

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Zero-VOC, Water-Based Sustainable Coating Technology for Decorative and Industrial Applications

The coating industry is growing at CAGR of 6.5% with market potential of USD 168 billion. Given the fast-paced infrastructure growth, consumption of decorative as well as industrial coatings is expected to increase significantly. However, the present conventional paint systems emit hazardous emissions that are responsible for climate change, global warming and have an adverse impact on human health. The coatings industry therefore is looking beyond performance, with sustainability becoming the need of the hour. This points to a gap between the sustainability aspects of paints, like low-VOC viz-a-viz performance properties and cost effectiveness, which can be identified as major obstacles in the market for environment-friendly coatings.

Greenovoc Specialty Coatings Pvt. Ltd. a research-oriented organization, has indigenously developed zero-VOC, water-based, grafted co-polymer technology to bridge the gap, and offers a sustainable, environment-friendly solution with high performance properties for decorative and industrial applications. In addition to the green aspects, the technology offers easy application features, like single pack, ready-to-use system, fast drying at room temperature and unlimited pot life, resulting in cost effectiveness. The performance of the technology has been established in various industrial segments, such as infrastructure, oil and gas, cement and steel, power, and HVAC. As such, it is a proven technology.

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Advancements in Trimellitic Anhydride (TMA)-Free Polyester Resins for Hybrid Powder Coatings

Polyester-epoxy hybrids are widely used in powder coatings, serving applications ranging from metal office furniture and domestic appliances to high-performance primers for corrosion-resistant applications in the agricultural and construction equipment and automotive markets. While trimellitic anhydride (TMA) has traditionally been a key monomer in these hybrid polyester resins, it introduces health risks in the manufacturing of these resins and subsequent powder coatings. Volatility in TMA prices also causes significant pressure on polyester resin suppliers and powder coating producers in the increasingly competitive market. Recent advancements in TMA-free resin technology eliminates these adverse health and cost concerns while also introducing additional benefits in sustainability through bio-based materials. These new TMA-free resins maintain performance standards, particularly in matting capabilities, matching or exceeding both previous generations and current market alternatives.

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Pigment Characterization and How to Use for Coatings Formulations

The correlation between chemistry of pigments and pigment performance is a key understanding in order to achieve a successful coatings formulation. There are many ways a pigment is characterized so that this view, along with an understanding of the finishing choices selected for that product, are key to creating an efficient, effective and successful formulation. In this presentation, we will follow the path from the pigment chemistry to the pigment finishing to the impact of that pigment product on a coatings formulation.

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Innovate with Confidence: Risk Mitigation Strategies for Coatings and Adhesives Suppliers

Innovation is essential — but inherently risky — for raw material suppliers developing new technologies for the increasingly complex and competitive coatings and adhesives industries. This presentation explores how suppliers can strengthen their product development process by embedding risk mitigation strategies within a commonly used structured, multi-phased innovation framework. We’ll examine common pitfalls, from misaligned customer needs to insufficient market validation, and share practical, real-world tactics to avoid them. Attendees will learn how to better align technical development with commercial objectives, reduce late-stage surprises, and improve their chances of delivering successful, market-ready solutions.

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Accelerating Coatings Innovation with Data Management and AI

Digitalization and AI are reshaping the coatings industry by enabling accelerated innovation and reduced time to market. Key challenges, however, include the high-dimensional design space of coatings and the barrier for structuring complex data to be AI-ready. With a modern data management tool, companies can leverage AI to rapidly meet regulatory and sustainability requirements, facilitate material replacements for supply chain resiliency, optimize key performance properties, and reduce costs.

This presentation will feature success stories from Henkel, Nouryon, Applied Molecules and more that demonstrate how a unified R&D platform can simplify the generation of AI-ready data, drive collaboration across thousands of scientists, and streamline formulation workflows. We will share specific examples of reducing development cycles from months to days, pushing product performance beyond historical limits, and unlocking an entirely new way of transacting business online. Regardless of how far along your organization is in its digital transformation, this session will offer practical use cases and key considerations for implementing an end-to-end R&D platform to modernize the way scientists invent coatings.

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Dispersant Technology Fundamentals

The use of dispersants is of high importance in the coatings industry. Proper understanding of their application and use in coatings formulation can make the difference between a coating with the proper color and protective properties vs. one that does not, leading to disappointment and failure in the end-use application. This presentation will cover the following aspects about dispersants to enable the best results in a coatings formulation.

• What, why, and how
• Dispersant types, associated pigment applications and considerations for selection
• Optimizing dispersant concentration/level in a formulation
• Process considerations
• Case studies

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Wollastonite as a Functional Filler to Enhance Coating Performance

Wollastonite is an acicular (rod-shaped) calcium metasilicate, which is used as a functional filler in coatings, composites, adhesives, polymers and construction materials. Pure forms of wollastonite are white, and color depends on mineral origin and the presence of impurities. As an additive in liquid coatings, wollastonite:

• acts as micro reinforcement, bridging cracks in the films and enhancing the mechanical resistance
• improves the durability of cured films
• buffers the pH of the system (due to its alkaline potential), both during storage and after cure
• enhances corrosion protection

In thermoplastics and in powder coatings, wollastonite:

• improves mechanical performance, such as impact resistance, tensile and flexural strength
• improves thermal and dimensional stability over broad temperature ranges

Wollastonite is thermally stable up to 2,800 °F, which allows its use in high-temperature applications. In particular, wollastonite is one of the few fillers that can be effectively used in weldable primers.

This presentation describes the use of wollastonite in coatings and the advantages thereof.

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Optimizing Paint and Coating Appearance Through Imaging-Based Measurement Systems

In the paints and coatings industry, achieving high-quality finishes is essential for both functional and aesthetic purposes. Traditional measurement methods often fail to align with human visual perception, leading to discrepancies between objective data and subjective evaluations. A novel camera-based measurement system, developed in collaboration with KU Leuven University in Belgium, introduces perception-based metrics that closely emulate human visual responses. This system integrates imaging technology to perform multi-metric measurements using unified hardware, streamlining the assessment process and improving efficiency.

Key advancements include:

• Visual Gloss Metric: A new metric that provides a more accurate representation of gloss as perceived by the human eye.
• Quantification of Waviness: An imaging technology that uses a perception scale to evaluate surface waviness.
• Haze Scale: A scale based on visual gloss perception that predicts haze visibility under varying conditions, including surface reflectivity and background color.
• Effect Pigment Metrics: New measurements to quantify the appearance of effect pigments.
• Polishing Quality Measurement: The ability to measure and control glossiness, haze and fine surface imperfections like scratches.
• Cross-Cut Adhesion Testing: The use of digital imaging to assess cross-cut adhesion metrics improving accuracy and reproducibility of this key industry test.

This innovative approach bridges the gap between objective measurements and subjective visual assessments, providing tools for enhanced quality control in paint and coating applications. By incorporating these metrics into development workflows, manufacturers can achieve consistent, high-quality finishes that meet both functional requirements and aesthetic expectations.

Speaker

Simply Change - Create PFAS-Free Solutions

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have become the subject of discussion as an ultrastable group of chemical compounds. They are therefore also termed “forever chemicals”. PFAS are almost entirely nondegradable and can accumulate in the environment, in human beings and in animals, but they are widely used for their exceptional properties under widely different conditions, such as strong reduction of surface tension, substrate wetting, anticrater, effective defoaming, excellent scratch and abrasion resistance, etc. This presentation will discuss new products that cover these unique properties without using PFAS.

Speaker

Boosting Sustainability in Coatings with Bio-Based and Biodegradable Additives

In the coatings industry, there is an increasing demand for environmentally friendly and safe products driven by regulations such as reduction of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and CO2 emissions, and the replacement of critical raw materials. Bio-based raw materials have been found to be appropriate substitutes as they frequently exhibit a significantly lower carbon footprint, a better toxicological profile as well as the capability of biodegradation.

In this study, the performance of bio-based citrate esters as coalescing agents for an architectural paint formulation was investigated, and the results were compared to market standards. Furthermore, the useability of xanthan gum as a rheology modifier was studied and the performance was compared to a cellulosic thickener for the same application. Contrary to most of the classical coalescent agents, citrate esters are non-VOC and comply with the latest toxicological and environmental safety requirements: they are characterized by highly efficient solvation, low migration, and non-VOC attributes. To showcase those features, 2.4 wt% coalescent agent (based on acrylic binder) was incorporated into an architectural paint. The deviations in properties of the dried paint were not significant among the tested coalescent agents. The study also revealed that the same dosage of xanthan gum leads to a low shear viscosity about 60% higher compared to cellulose thickeners. This effectively improves storage stability, due to the high stabilization of pigment particles, while leading to comparable levelling and sagging. High shear viscosity on the other hand is about 50% lower, which improves applicability. The versatility of xanthan gum is not limited to pigmented systems. It is possible to adjust the viscosity of clear coats, while maintaining transparency.

Speaker

Liquid (State) Color Development

This presentation was the winning paper at the 2025 European Coatings Show, and will discuss how to improve color development. Topics of discussion include:

• Dry to Liquid Spectral Mapping: The conversion of spectral measurement data read from a dry sample into virtual spectral data of the same material measured as liquid film is the theoretical basis. Therefore, an artificial intelligence (AI) model has been trained using a newly developed specific error function.
• Technical Realization: Dynamic liquid color measurement (LCM) is the established hardware backbone. By making use of the AI model mentioned above, encapsulated by a web application and providing a REST API, a virtual liquid twin is deduced from the spectral measurement of a given dry standard for which a color development is requested. This digital twin can be used as a virtual standard for color matching in the liquid state.
• Business Benefit: Only color development using spectral data allows selection of the most appropriate color components, which can limit the risk of mis-selection resulting in greater metamerism. Transferring color development from the dry state into the liquid state of aggregation eliminates the need for application for each development step (hit), introducing a great part of the process error and drying, consuming a great amount of energy.

Additionally, liquid color development reduces waste, in form of dry samples, and accelerates the process significantly, because the time to prepare the sample (application and drying) after mixing the components becomes obsolete. Furthermore, add-on components to allow for better application and drying might no longer be necessary.

Speaker

High-Renewable, Oil-Modified Polyurethane Dispersion for Sustainable Wood Coatings

Lubrizol introduces a novel technology for the development of high-renewable polyurethane dispersion (PUDs) sourced from natural ingredients like soya oils, ensuring minimum interference with food chain and 100% traceability. These PUDs pave the way for low-VOC bio-based coatings with exceptional performance properties, excluding the need for driers or other potential harmful additives or solvents. By utilizing renewable sources as one of the primary raw materials, this innovation represents a significant step towards sustainable coatings formulations, offering both environmental benefits and superior wood performance coating performance.

The presentation will detail the formulation process, characterization studies and performance evaluations of coatings utilizing this innovative technology, highlighting its potential to revolutionize the sustainable coatings industry.

Speaker

Circular Reuse: Sustainable Model of Paint Recycling

The circular economy doesn’t just fight the carbon footprint issue, but also serves as an inflation hedge, stabilizing prices and ensuring product availability in communities of need. This presentation will discuss both the economic and sustainability aspects of paint recycling. The advantages include: lower carbon footprint; reducing greenhouse effects; less waste for paint companies; lower extraction of natural resources; anti-inflationary in nature; making coatings affordable and reachable in needy communities; and a greener, healthier, environmentally friendly and Sustainable tomorrow. Learn how The Paint Foundation works with industry to convert coatings waste into new paint products for re-use.

Speaker

Sustainable Laser Technology for the Coatings Industry

In this presentation, we will explore several examples of a more sustainable, high-speed, precise and energy-efficient laser cleaning, stripping, and thermal processing techniques tailored to the industrial coatings industry. Lasers’ ability to selectively heat coatings — without affecting the surrounding atmosphere or substrate — enables rapid, volumetric curing and drying, reducing curing times by up to 80%. This targeted energy delivery results in faster processing with lower energy consumption compared to conventional methods, while offering exceptional process control and temperature regulation within a precise 1°C range. We will demonstrate how these laser technologies achieve consistent, high-quality results for both cleaning and thermal processing applications.

Laser cleaning, stripping, curing, and drying technologies are rapidly gaining prominence in the industrial coatings sector due to their cost-efficiency and sustainability. These laser-based processes offer substantial benefits, including enhanced throughput, reduced energy consumption and improved precision, all while eliminating consumable materials and minimizing industrial waste. Furthermore, lasers can be utilized to create a uniform surface profile, which is crucial for enhancing adhesion in various applications.

Speaker

Future-Proofing Corrosion Control

Corrosion inhibitors are essential to protect metal surfaces in various coating applications. Conventional inorganic inhibitors are derived from metallic salts that passivate the corrosion cell. Many inorganic corrosion inhibitors contain toxic heavy-metals that pose significant environmental and health risks. The industry has moved away from the use of lead in most progressive countries, as well as chromium. Other heavy-metals, such as zinc and barium, are still widely used, but are under increased regulatory pressure. Coatings developers are looking for eco-friendly alternatives to provide the sample performance benefits.

New organic corrosion inhibitors are sustainable alternatives to heavy metal-based additives. They can be used to enhance performance, or to replace toxic materials, while being VOC-free. Organic inhibitors provide an alternative mechanism for corrosion inhibition, which can reduce or eliminate heavy-metal use. They can also be used to synergistically enhance performance of the current corrosion inhibitor package when regulatory constraints are not eminent. A review of mechanisms by which organic inhibitors function will be provided. Case studies will highlight the factors that influence their effectiveness in diverse applications, including chemical structure, resin compatibility and use level.

Speaker

A Cost-Effective Approach to Formulate Emulsions Leading to Improved Colloidal Stability and Finished Coatings

Stabilizing polymer emulsions is a critical issue for many chemists, emulsion manufacturers and users. The destabilization of a polymer emulsion can lead to problems in manufacturing, transportation and formulation. Sodium p-styrene sulfonate has proven to be a useful reactive emulsifier. Sodium p-styrene sulfonate is the most reactive sulfonated monomer among sulfonated vinyl monomers. Its main characteristics include low toxicity, high reactivity, sulfonic acid functionality and excellent surface activity, making it suitable for various unique applications. A small dosage of sodium p-styrene sulfonate can improve the stability of a polymer emulsion. In addition, the amount of surfactant/emulsifier required is dramatically reduced, resulting in superior coatings with fewer defects. In addition to the sodium salt, the ammonium salt is also available. Ammonium p-styrene sulfonate can potentially solve water resistance and corrosion issues caused by alkali metals, making it ideal for producing even higher quality emulsion than NaSS.

Speaker

Low-Viscosity Polycaprolactone Polyols for Performance and Sustainability

Polycaprolactone (PCL) polyols can be used to enhance 2K polyurethane coatings by improving their scratch resistance, flexibility, impact resistance and protection from chemicals. Newly developed PCL polyols also make coatings more sustainable, as they are lower in viscosity and are hazardous label-free.

Due to the regulatory position of trimethylolpropane (TMP) being classified as a reproductive toxin, an alternative technology for three-functional polyols has been developed to protect applicators. Furthermore, the same PCL polyols are used as reactive diluents to replace solvents and increase solids in liquid formulations to lower the use of volatile organic compounds. This study was performed to evaluate the performance of both conventional and state-of-the-art caprolactone polyols when used in 2K polyurethane formulations. The results show that performance is maintained while sustainability is improved with new polycaprolactone polyol technology.

Speaker

A Novel Approach for Applying 2K Coatings to Improve Outcomes and Reduce Cost

2K coatings are being heralded as an innovative means to increase the move towards 100% solids materials and reduce the need for thermal curing, thus reducing the energy required for the coating process. While the benefits are indisputable, there are issues associated with these technologies that can make them difficult to process in the manufacturing environment. All of these must be dealt with as part of the application process and, if not properly handled, can result in production delays that reduce throughput, reduce quality and increase costs. Obviously, this runs counter to the objectives of these advanced technologies.

This presentation will:

• define induction time and pot life and the relationship between them
• discuss the implications these pose to the modern manufacturing process
• identify novel methods to leverage these properties, turning them from adversaries to allies in the application process
• identify opportunities to minimize waste, reduce rework, increase throughput, and improve the quality of the coating process

Speaker

Using Rheology to Optimize Coatings

An ideal coating will have a myriad of challenging rheological attributes including good storage stability, high shear stability, low extensional viscosity to eliminate longitudinal striations and other coating defects. On top of this ideally we need good metering and a maximized solids loading to minimize the drying time. These attributes can be quickly characterized with either rotational or capillary rheometry with just a few test methods. This presentation will discuss various approaches to both measuring the rheology and optimizing a formulation.

Speaker

A Novel Multifunctional Buffer System for Enhanced Microbial Stability in Water-Based Formulations

A newly developed multifunctional buffer system, combining a tailored “good buffer” with a complex, offers a significant advancement in microbial stabilization of aqueous formulations. The system buffers effectively over a broad pH range (6–10), ensuring chemical stability while simultaneously exhibiting a physical mode of action against microbial contamination. Unlike conventional preservatives, this additive does not rely on chemical toxicity but instead encapsulates microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi and viruses, preventing their movement and reproduction. This unique mechanism avoids microbial cell damage or denaturation, and thus, the formulation does not fall under biocidal regulations. Practical applications have demonstrated its efficacy in replacing common in-can preservatives (e.g., isothiazolinones) in coatings, adhesives, and other water-based systems, reducing regulatory and toxicological burdens. The product is label-free, REACH compliant, and suitable for personal care and household formulations. At concentrations ranging from 0.6–1.6%, it provides reliable long-term preservation without altering formulation properties. These attributes make it a sustainable, safer, and regulatory-friendly alternative for modern formulators seeking to enhance performance and compliance in diverse application fields.

Speaker

Newest Technologies in Pigment Dispersion and Stabilization

The pigment dispersion and stabilization stages are crucial to the successful manufacturing process of making paint. It requires the pigment stabilization mechanism be highly resistant to flocculation throughout the manufacturing, storage, application and solidification stages. A new approach to the development of additives to enhance the dispersion and stabilization of pigments will be presented.

These new additives are soluble in a wide range of solvents, and exhibit compatibility in wide range of organic coating chemistries. High Molar Volume (HMV) uses highly branched structures to provide exceptional resistance to flocculation. These branched polymers occupy a greater volume than their linear counterparts and solubility in a wide range of solvents; while exhibiting a greater range of resin compatibility.

Also discussed will be the attributes of (HIA), Hyper Interactive Association polymers, and their contribution to stability and compatibility. Additionally, these specialty additives are able to disperse and stabilize the full range of pigment chemistries so that a single dispersant can now be used; simplifying inventory and reducing carrying costs. This technology is available for waterborne, solventborne, as well as solvent-free formulations.

Speaker

Thermal Management - Fundamental Insights

Thermal management, specifically fireproofing, has become a critical component for the building construction, architectural and industrial segments. Recent California fires highlight the need for technology advancements. The architectural segment uses Cellulosic Passive Fire Protection (CPFP), and the industrial segment use Hydrocarbon Passive Fire Protection (HPFP). The type of polymer chemistries used has a significant impact on char formation and coating properties, a key deciding factor where these products are used, on wood, plastics or steel substrates. These technologies found newer applications in automotive, residential, electronics and hydrogen storage facilities. Regulatory constraints are driving alternatives to traditionally used intumescent components such as melamine and norates. This presentation will discuss fundamental insights into intumescent charring mechanism, the impact of polymer architecture on end use properties, need for new polymers, currently used tests and the need for accelerated test methods. It will conclude with current technical gaps for any collaborations.

Speaker

Advancing Sustainable Coatings with U.S. Soybean Oil: Renewable Solutions for Coatings Manufacturers

As one of the most abundant plant-based oils, U.S. soybean oil, is a key resource in advancing sustainable coatings formulations. Backed by the United Soybean Board (USB), this presentation explores how leveraging U.S. soy supports sustainability and supply chain optimization. Soy offers numerous advantages, including renewability, cost efficiency, consistent quality and broad availability. Its stable, year-round production and established processing infrastructure simplify supply chains, reduce transportation costs and lower carbon footprints. Beyond renewability, soy derivatives enable resin manufacturers to develop an array of innovative, cost-competitive and sustainable products.

Historically used in alkyd resin formulations for nearly a century, soy's applications have significantly expanded beyond these resins to include polyurethanes, solvents, dispersants, coalescents, waxes and color dispersions.

This presentation highlights USB-funded research comparing the performance of commercially available soy-based and petroleum-based materials. Coatings formulated with a multitude of soy-based materials were tested in wood deck stains and sealers, providing valuable data for formulators striving to enhance bio-based content in their products. Join us to discover how soy-based innovations can empower coatings manufacturers to meet sustainability goals while maintaining technical excellence and market competitiveness.

Speaker

Advances in GMA Acrylic Resins: Addressing New Challenge with a Novel Approach

The powder coatings industry continues to strive for improvements in environmental safety, energy efficiency, carbon emissions, handling and performance properties. GMA acrylic resins are glycidyl-functional acrylic polymers capable of reacting with carboxyl-functional compounds to form durable powder coatings. GMA acrylic powder coatings are well-known for their excellent weatherability, chemical resistance, clarity and surface smoothness. Novel approaches employing the use of GMA acrylic powder technologies such as low-temperature cure, polyester compatibility and gloss control will be discussed in detail to not only maintain the expected inherently high performance but to unlock potential of GMA acrylic technology to expand beyond current market spaces.

Speaker

Comparing a Portable Contact Angle Goniometer Vs. Research-Style Goniometer for Wettability and Surface Energy Results on Various Coated Substrates

The market demand to replace dyne pens for faster, more accurate contact angle and surface energy results that can be made directly in production has fueled the development of sophisticated portable, handheld contact angle goniometers. These devices are growing in popularity and allow immediate measurement of contact angle and surface energy, requiring minimal operator expertise or training. However, the question arises as to how results obtained using a handheld device with two test liquids will compare in accuracy and repeatability to the more traditional, lab-scale devices that offer the ability to make high-speed movie measurements of droplet spreading and use as many as three or even four different test liquids. This presentation will compare and contrast contact angle and surface energy results obtained using both a handheld versus a lab-style research-grade contact angle goniometer. Real-world advantages and disadvantages of these two types of measurement devices will be presented.

Speaker

Advances in PFAS-Free Omniphobic Coatings Through Surface Engineering and Novel Particle Additives

The replacement of PFAS in coatings has become a critical research focus, driven by growing environmental concerns and tightening regulatory pressures. This presentation highlights the fundamental challenges associated with PFAS replacement and reviews recent advances in the development of PFAS-free omniphobic coatings. Emphasis is placed on nonfluorinated, waterborne systems and the pivotal role of surface engineering in enhancing liquid repellency. We discuss emerging chemistries showing strong potential and explore strategies to improve coating performance by controlling micro- and nanoscale surface morphology. Building on these developments, we introduce novel nanoparticle-based additives that are water-dispersible, environmentally friendly and capable of forming unique surface structures through self-assembly. These additives create robust omniphobic layers, achieving repellency against both polar and nonpolar liquids while maintaining full compatibility with commercial binders. This approach provides a scalable and sustainable pathway for the next generation of high-performance coatings.

Speaker

Crawl, Walk, Run - How to Successfully Deploy AI in the Lab

AI is finally being used in real-time at the bench by chemists and materials scientists, dramatically speeding product development and the overall pace of innovation. But ask 10 people what AI is, and you will get 10 different answers, ranging from pure magic to it doesn’t work at all. In fact, when polled, the vast majority of companies have yet to start rolling AI out. In this talk, we examine the root causes of this hesitation and also put forward a framework to approach the successful adoption of this new and exciting technology, which covers the objectives of both business and R&D leaders.

Business leaders want to:

• Understand the steps that can be taken to successfully deploy AI in real-time at the bench
• Invest incrementally and build on initial successes as they gain momentum
• Achieve measurable ROI every step of the way

R&D leaders want to:

• Explore problem spaces more broadly, but with fewer experiments
• Use AI and DOE synergistically to generate recommendations with high predictive accuracy of technical and functional performance targets
• Achieve concrete success metrics that measure the accuracy of AI and its operating impact

Learn how both constituencies can be satisfied and your company can get value from AI.

Speaker

New Coating Thickness Technology: Offering Precision Control of Exacting Coating Applications

This innovative technology leverages ultrasound to measure pulse echo layer thickness, setting a global standard for high-resolution, multilayer precision thickness gauging. It offers nondestructive, high-resolution measurements, enabling precise control by measuring every layer individually and simultaneously. This technology is crucial for applications requiring exacting standards, such as automotive and automotive-type paints, wind turbine blade protective coatings, steel coil coatings, shipping container anticorrosion coatings, and more.

Traditional film thickness gauges lack the precision required for accurate multilayer measurements. Standard single-layer gauges cannot measure the multiple layers needed in applications like automotive paints, anticorrosion coatings and steel coil coatings. In contrast, this ultrasonic thickness gauging technology provides fully automatic measurements of up to five coating layers on almost any substrate, including steel, aluminum, plastics, composites, glass and wood. Most automotive OEMs rely on this technology for precise, high-resolution film thickness measurements of multilayer coatings.

The technology can measure from one- up to five-layer coatings, allowing for accurate testing of multilayer film thicknesses on any substrate material, including “wet on wet” topcoat and “3 wet process.” There is no need for specially taped or prepared panels. The final process surface is all that is needed to take measurements. It provides individual layer thickness and total thickness at each measurement point, delivering a reliable solution for precise, high-resolution multilayer film thickness measurements, precision control and enhanced customer satisfaction.

This presentation also covers the principles of measurement, coating calibration processes, available software and advantages over traditional methods.

Speaker

N-Butylpyrrolidone (NBP) as a Green Solvent to Replace N-methylpyrrolidone (NMP) in Industrial Coating Applications

EPA published a regulation proposal around N-methylpyrrolidone (NMP) in June 2024 to ban or limit NMP in many applications, such as paints and coatings and their removers. N-butylpyrrolidone (NBP) is a powerful and versatile solvent for a variety of industries looking for alternatives to substance of very high concern (SVHC)-listed solvents. This presentation will show that NBP can be used to replace NMP with little or no reformulation without compromising on product quality. NBP enhances the performance of cleaning formulations for industrial cleaning, such as tanks and tools, and paints, coatings and adhesive removers. In PUD synthesis, NBP allows formulators to reduce both dimethylolpropionic aicd (DMPA) content and co-solvents while maintaining end properties similar to those of NMP-based formulations. It also shows improved coalescence and reduced dry-to-touch time in waterborne PUD formulations.

Speaker

Innovative Block Additives: A Sustainable Solution to PFAS in Coatings

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been widely used across various industries because of their ability to significantly lower the surface tension in liquids and the surface energy of coatings. These properties are crucial as they prevent paint films from sticking together when surfaces come into contact. This blocking issue is prevalent particularly around doors and windows, or when stacking painted parts. However, the use of PFAS has raised concerns due to their potential environmental and health impacts. Their persistence in the environment and tendency to accumulate in both the human body and the ecosystem may lead to adverse health effects.

Ashland has developed an innovative solution by creating a series of blocking additives that are designed to replace PFAS in waterborne coating applications. These additives provide similar performance benefits without the associated environmental and health risks. The new blocking additives maintain a higher surface energy than PFAS, which improves recoatability. This presentation will detail the properties and advantages of these blocking additives by examining key data. The performance attributes will be highlighted on dirt pickup resistance (DPUR), recoatability, stain and scrub resistance, and substrate wetting.

Speaker

Surface-Treated Nepheline Syenite with Silane Coupling Agents for Enhanced Physical, Chemical and Optical Performance in Low-Silica Industrial Coatings

This presentation will discuss a series of new functionalized surfaced-treated mineral fillers. Resin technologies for industrial maintenance and floor coatings based on polyaspartic resins and other polyurea chemistry types benefit greatly by incorporating hydrophobic and functionalized nepheline syenite mineral fillers. General industrial 2K polyurethane clears and pigmented topcoat performance is also increased with new silane-treated nepheline syenite fillers for increased weathering and corrosion resistance. Product and application data showing improved performance in polyaspartic floor coatings and 2K polyurethane topcoats will be presented.

Speaker

New-Generation Bentonite Rheology Modifiers in High-Performance Architectural and Industrial Coatings

A new inorganic-based bentonite rheology modifier delivers unique performance, low carbon emissions, long-term storage stability, much lower haze level, superior whiteness and transparency without gloss loss in high-gloss paints. This product can be used to replace other traditional organic rheology modifiers to reduce carbon emissions. As a naturally mined and processed mineral material, it inherently offers advantages like low VOC, low toxicity and biodegradability, perfectly aligning with global green chemistry and sustainable development principles. It could be widely used in cutting-edge green systems such as water-based industrial coatings, architectural coatings, high-solid anticorrosion, powder coatings, etc. New-generation high-performance bentonite rheology modifiers are not only key materials for enhancing coating performance but also a crucial engine driving industrial green/sustainable development and global innovation. With its natural, eco-friendly attributes and outstanding performance, it provides practical solutions for coating companies to address environmental challenges and achieve low-carbon transformation.

Speaker

Real-World Successes in AI-Enabled Coatings Innovation

Artificial intelligence is unlocking entirely new opportunities and business models for enterprise R&D organizations. This panel discussion will explore how top innovators are integrating large language models into their R&D pipeline, and progressing from structured lab data to intelligent automation, then to AI-powered customer and supply chain experiences. Additionally, as the coatings industry faces a significant knowledge gap between new and retiring chemists, AI is helping companies bridge this divide, attract talent and reshape how innovation happens. Our panelists will discuss real case studies on how their companies are using AI to reimagine their R&D and product development.

Panelists

Surfactants and Rheology: Chemistry, Theory, Mechanism and Application

This short course initially reviews the various types and chemical structures of commercially available surfactants. We then dive into an understanding of the role of inter-atomic and inter-molecular attractive forces as it relates to surface tension. The course progresses to a better understanding of various surface activities including surface area, surface tension, surface pressure, wetting, surface transport, and micelle formation. We will explore the world of foam with respect to how surface-active agents stabilize and de-stabilize bubbles at the surface or as entrained air. Finally, a review of surfactants as an aid to the dispersion process and the measurements of surface tension in both static and dynamic conditions.

The second part reviews the basic principles of rheology, including its definition and its influencers chemical structure, morphology, and environmental conditions. The impact by various deformation forces, including compression, tension, torque, and, particularly, shear will be reviewed to demonstrate the resulting flow profiles of viscosity as a function of shear and time. The chemistry and ancestry of current rheological agents will help clarify the appropriate selection of products for various formulation types including waterborne, solventborne, aliphatic, aromatic, and polar systems.

While targeted to formulating chemists, this course is also well suited for marketing, sales, and production personnel. Managers and supervisors would also benefit by having a better understanding, and appreciation, of the important role surfactants and rheology play to the production, storage, transport, and application of quality paints and coatings.

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Instructor

Performance by Design: The Art and Science of Binder Technologies in Powder Coatings

Binder technologies form the cornerstone of powder coating formulations, driving critical performance attributes such as UV durability, corrosion resistance, and aesthetic appeal. In this short course, we will examine the primary types of binder systems used in powder coatings, with in-depth discussions on resin and crosslinker selection, crosslinking mechanisms, and strategies to tailor formulations for specific performance requirements.

The course also features focused explorations of advanced topics, including matting techniques specific to binder type and approaches to formulating the low-temperature-cure powder coatings that are essential for heat- sensitive substrates, high-metal-mass parts, and energy efficiency.

Through detailed discussions, practical examples, and technical insights, participants will leave with the tools to confidently navigate the complexities of resin selection and formulation. Whether you’re a formulator, raw material supplier, applicator, or end user looking to deepen your understanding of powder coatings, this course provides a foundation for building expertise in the field

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Instructors

Rheological Additives in Latex Paint Formulations: How to Select Them and Adjust Viscosity to Obtain the Best Workability and Stability

A practical guide to rheological additives in latex paints, including cellulose ethers, clays, HEUR, and HASE/ASE thickeners. Step-by-step discussion of the selection of rheological additives based on research procedures, taking into account obtaining initial viscosity, and stabilizing viscosity over time, including storage stability, tintability as tint viscosity stability, as well as viscosity in the entire area of shear forces (Brookfield, Stormer, ICI-CAP), with attention to secondary rheological properties such as brush/roller drag, spattering, sagging, leveling.

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Instructor

Formulating for Industrial Coatings

In this course we will cover strategies to maximize the performance of industrial coatings systems. We will highlight raw materials and how they affect the physical properties such as corrosion resistance, adhesion, the balance on hardness and flexibility… We will cover the main raw materials used in industrial coatings (resins/binders, pigments, solvents and additives) and formulation methods to achieve the optimum balance of properties. Also covered will be cure mechanisms and how to optimize resin choice.

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Instructor