Coatings Trends & Technologies Summit Agenda

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Surfactants and Rheology: Chemistry, Theory, Mechanism and Application

This three-hour short course on “Surfactants and Rheology: Chemistry, Theory, Mechanism and Application” 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

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Industrial Coatings

In this three-hour course, we will discuss the various resin chemistries used in coatings (alkyd, acrylic, urethane, etc.) and which to select for the best performance. Also covered will be the various states of resins (waterborne, solvent-based, 100% solids). The different curing mechanisms (coalescence, oxidative cure, 2K baking) and how these relate to the effects on a formulation will also be highlighted to help make decisions easier for the formulator.

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Instructor

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Film Formation, Drying and Early Performance of Latex Paints – From MFFT to Blocking Resistance (ASTM-Based Approach)

This course will focus on practical formulation strategies and laboratory evaluation, including coalescents, low-temperature film formation, open time, early scrub resistance, blocking, and key ASTM test methods, with a strong hands-on and troubleshooting perspective.

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Instructor

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Designing Powder Coatings for Harsh Environments – from Pipelines to Electric Vehicles

A key advantage of powder coatings is their ability to deliver durable performance in harsh environments. From architectural aluminum and oil & gas pipelines to electric vehicle applications, OEMs and end users rely on powder coatings to protect components from environmental and mechanical stresses, such as UV exposure, corrosive environments, chemical attack, abrasion, and thermal cycling. Successfully meeting these demands requires a strong understanding of end-use requirements and the powder coating technologies capable of delivering the necessary performance.

This three-hour short course will examine several demanding applications and how powder coatings are designed to meet their unique requirements. Topics will include the key properties needed for each application, the binder chemistries that provide the foundation for coating performance, and the formulation and application strategies used to achieve the desired durability.

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Instructors

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Coatings in the Era of Smart Manufacturing: Productivity and Sustainability Ahead

Manufacturing is undergoing rapid transformation as digitalization, automation, advanced materials and application technologies continue to evolve and converge. This presentation examines those shifts through the lens of coatings, adhesives and sealants, with a focus on how they affect formulation, application, performance and sustainability.

Industry 4.0’s data-rich automation and AI capabilities are reshaping total solutions — product, process and service — by accelerating formulation workflows, improving process control and reducing variability and waste across application, cure and bonding operations.

Industry 5.0 builds on this momentum by reinforcing sustainable chemistries, circular material strategies and adaptive automation. Together, these advances can help coatings manufacturers and formulators improve productivity, lower environmental burden and develop a new generation of tailored, high-performance, low-impact coatings, adhesives and sealant technologies.

Keynote Speaker

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Organic Growth vs. Open Innovation in Coatings R&D

Coatings companies are re-evaluating how innovation is structured as performance demands rise and development timelines tighten. This keynote panel will explore how internal R&D fits alongside external collaboration, including partnerships with universities, consortia and other research or technology partners. Designed for coatings formulators, chemists and R&D leaders, the discussion will examine how organizations decide what to develop internally, when to collaborate and how these choices shape speed, expertise and long-term differentiation.

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Soy-Based Polyurethane-Acrylic Hybrid Dispersion Technology for Low-VOC Wood Coatings

Driven by increasing sustainability demands and tightening VOC regulations, the authors developed a soy-based polyurethane–acrylic (PUA) hybrid dispersion platform tailored for next-generation low-VOC wood coatings. This work presents and compares two distinct hybrid architectures:

An interpenetrating polyurethane–acrylic crosslinked polymer network (IPN).
An in situ physical blend of polyurethane dispersion and acrylic polymer made by emulsion polymerization.

Both hybrid systems were synthesized with soybean oil-derived polyols or fatty acid-based building blocks, enabling high bio-based content while maintaining the performance required for wood flooring and kitchen cabinet applications. The structure–property relationships of each design were evaluated with respect to film formation, hardness development, chemical resistance, abrasion durability, flexibility and overall appearance.

The PUA IPN network demonstrated superior toughness, abrasion resistance and chemical resistance, making it well suited for high traffic flooring systems. In contrast, the in-situ PU/A blend offered improved flexibility, better blocking resistance and easier formulation tuning—attributes desirable for cabinets.

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UV Coatings for Metal Coil Applications

UV LED coil coatings offer great manufacturing flexibility for your coatings needs. Allied UV teams up with Process Partners, qualified UV Systems Integrators that offer a seamless UV coating solution that delivers on the following:

Much faster production due to instant cure
Small equipment footprint / less plant floor footage / less energy costs with LED lights
Optimized process solution tailored to your needs
Cleaner
No emissions
No VOCs or HAPs
RoHS-compliant

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Designing Acrylic Polymers for High-Performance, Water-Based Concrete Coatings

Designing robust polymer systems for water-based coatings that protect and beautify concrete surfaces is a challenge. Solvent-based solution resin technologies provide a desirable “wet look” appearance and good penetration while developing strong chemical resistance and film toughness. The solvent-based resins have undesirable environmental impacts because they use petroleum-based materials. Two-component concrete coating systems made from epoxy or polyurethanes give excellent toughness though they are challenging for application due to mixing and handling requirements. Modern acrylic dispersions offer capability to formulate single component coatings at low-VOC with functional performance for film toughness but often fall short in appearance and water whitening of the coating film. The use of modern polymer design strategies can be used to generate high-performance single component water-based concrete finishes that overcome these application challenges. This research explores polymer characteristics of monomer hydrophobicity, hardness, internal crosslinking mechanisms and latex particle size for effects on concrete coating performance. Key polymer attributes are revealed for concrete sealer and concrete paint formulations to deliver excellent performance for hardness, chemical resistance and hot tire pickup resistance in low-VOC water-based coatings. Specifically, optimized formulations using higher Tg self-crosslinking acrylics are shown to deliver excellent performance for one-component concrete coatings.

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Silica-Based Alternative to PTFE Texturing Agents for Powder Coatings

Keeping up with latest formulation challenges on sustainability and regulatory compliance, finding alternatives to PTFE texturing agents for powder coatings is a hot topic. PTFE has been the go-to product for creating fine-texture coatings, transforming irregular surfaces into attractive and wear-resistant finishes. This study reviews additive technologies which influence powder coating surface texture, benchmarking key coating properties and highlighting a new sustainable texturing alternative.

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The Right Chemistry: Structure-Property Insights for Next-Generation Wood Coatings

As the landscape of wood coatings evolves, formulators are empowered with an ever-broadening spectrum of advanced polymer technologies. This diversity stems from increasing performance expectations, shifting raw material dynamics and tightening regulatory frameworks. Water-based coatings, driven by advanced polymer chemistries and a growing emphasis on sustainability, are rising to the forefront. This presentation delves into the critical structure-property relationships that underpin various polymer platforms and investigates how 1K and 2K formulations with different crosslinker technologies influence key performance attributes such as durability and protection.

Attendees will gain actionable insights into selecting the optimal chemistry tailored to their unique application needs, ensuring both regulatory compliance and high-performance results.

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Opportunities for Energy-Cure Coatings in the Advanced Air Mobility Marketplace

Advanced Air Mobility, also referred to as the Low Atmosphere Economy, is the next frontier in the aerospace marketplace. It’s more than just “flying cars” – it could change how people move from one place to another. More than 1,000 companies are working to define this market.The demands of this new approach to transportation are different than any other that has come before them – combining the safety requirements of a modern airliner, the power system and lightweighting of an EV, with the low-cost high production levels of an automotive factory.The need for fast, lightweight, high accuracy coating technologies points directly toward energy curing as the best solution to these seemingly conflicting objectives.

The presentation will:

Define Advanced Air Mobility and the Lower Atmosphere Economy.
Identify how it relates to the existing aerospace marketplace – the similarities, but more importantly the differences.
Demonstrate how the demands of this burgeoning marketplace will drive different approaches to manufacturing.
Establish how these new approaches align directly with modern energy cure coatings and coating processes.
Reveal why now is the ideal time to be focused on this opportunity.

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Colloidal Silica for Topical Cement Applications

Sodium silicate-based nanosilica (SS), a colloidal dispersion of SiO₂ nanoparticles stabilized in sodium silicate solution, was investigated as a high-performance concrete densifier to refine microstructure, enhance mechanical properties and improve long-term durability. Concrete specimens were subjected to a surface coating of SS (applied as a surface penetrant) were prepared alongside control mixes and subjected to standardized testing protocols including rapid chloride permeability (RCPT), water absorption, air sorptivity and surface abrasion testing. Microstructural characterization was performed via scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) to elucidate hydration product evolution.

Results demonstrated that optimal SS topical coating to fresh concrete increased the surface abrasion resistance by greater that 20% relative to reference concrete, while reducing chloride ion penetrability by up to 30% and water absorption by 35–42%. SEM analyses revealed accelerated pozzolanic conversion of portlandite into secondary C–S–H gel, producing a denser, more homogeneous cementitious matrix with fewer capillary voids. These improvements were sustained at 90 days and under simulated marine exposure conditions.

The findings establish sodium nanosilica as an effective, low-dosage densifier when applied as a topical coating that simultaneously densifies the concrete matrix through nanoparticle pore-filling and secondary hydration, offering a sustainable pathway to extend service life in aggressive environments while maintaining compatibility with conventional mix designs and application practices.

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Sustainable Mineral Innovation: A Multifunctional, PFAS-Free and Low-Carbon Solution for Next-Generation Powder Coatings

As the coatings industry shifts toward more rigorous environmental standards, the demand for high-performance additives with a low carbon footprint has become paramount. While natural minerals offer a sustainable and versatile platform for functional fillers, their inherent hydrophilicity has traditionally limited their performance in advanced formulations. Recent breakthroughs at Imerys in PFAS-free surface engineering have overcome these barriers, enabling the production of superhydrophobic minerals with water contact angles exceeding 150°.

This innovation represents a paradigm shift in sustainable material science, offering a multi-functional alternative to traditional synthetic additives.

Key performance advantages include:

PFAS-Free Compliance: Meets evolving regulatory requirements by providing extreme water repellency without the use of fluorinated chemistries.
Low Carbon Footprint: Leverages naturally occurring mineral morphologies to reduce reliance on energy-intensive synthetic polymers and additives.
TiO2 Replacement & Extension: Optimizes spacing and opacity, allowing formulators to reduce titanium dioxide loading while maintaining coating integrity.
High-Performance Matting: Functions as a highly efficient matting aid for powder coatings, delivering exceptional clarity and consistent gloss reduction (achieving 30 GU / 20 GU at 60°).
Operational Versatility: Demonstrates excellent compatibility with low-cure systems, where in-process compounding delivers consistent performance and finish stability.
By combining the low-carbon benefits of natural minerals with advanced surface functionalization, this technology provides a sustainable path forward for the development of durable, eco-friendly and high-value coating systems.

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Hollow Borosilicate Glass Microspheres as Multifunctional Fillers for Next-Generation Cool Roof Coatings

Cool roof coatings are increasingly mandated by building energy codes across North America as a cost-effective strategy to reduce cooling energy consumption, mitigate urban heat island effects and extend roof service life. While conventional formulations rely primarily on titanium dioxide (TiO₂) for solar reflectance, TiO₂ is effective mainly in the visible spectrum and absorbs significantly in the near-infrared (NIR) region above 650 nm — the portion of the solar spectrum that accounts for the largest share of thermal energy input to roofing surfaces.

This presentation introduces the family of hollow borosilicate glass microspheres developed by Sigmund Lindner as an advanced multifunctional filler that addresses this limitation. With true densities ranging from 0.15 to 0.60 g/cm³, thermal conductivities as low as 0.05 W·m?¹·K?¹ and crushing strengths up to 110 MPa, these hollow beads combine solar radiation management with meaningful thermal insulation and significant weight reduction in a single additive.

The presentation will cover: the optical mechanism by which hollow glass microspheres scatter and reflect solar radiation across the full UV–Vis–NIR spectrum, complementing rather than duplicating the reflective profile of TiO₂; thermal conductivity characteristics of the hollow spheres, including published data showing that hollow glass microsphere fillers can achieve greater than 50% reduction in coating thermal conductivity compared to conventionally filled systems; a discussion of expected thermal performance benefits in elastomeric and acrylic coating formulations typical of the cool roof segment, with guidance on grade selection for different performance targets; and (4) practical formulation guidelines including loading levels, viscosity management and silane surface treatment options for optimized matrix compatibility across acrylic, silicone and elastomeric binder systems.

The presentation will also discuss broader applicability of these hollow borosilicate glass spheres in exterior architectural coatings where thermal management, weight reduction and improved application properties converge as value drivers for the North American construction market.

Attendees will gain actionable formulation insights for developing high-performance cool roof and exterior coatings that deliver thermal insulation, solar reflectance and density reduction — combining three functional benefits in one filler system

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Breaking the PCBTF Barrier: High-Performance Soy Solvents Redefining Low-VOC Coatings

As VOC regulations tighten and scrutiny of exempt solvents increases, coatings formulators are seeking safer, sustainable alternatives that do not compromise performance. Backed by the United Soybean Board (USB), this presentation explores the use of soy methyl esters (SMEs) as low-VOC, bio-based replacements for petroleum-derived solvents, including para-chlorobenzotrifluoride (PCBTF), in solventborne coatings applications.

Derived from U.S. soybean oil through transesterification, SMEs offer strong solvency, low volatility, biodegradability and domestic supply chain advantages. Their favorable boiling point and vapor pressure profiles enable effective VOC reduction while supporting improved environmental and worker safety profiles.

This presentation highlights comparative performance data from feasibility studies in wood floor finishes and alkyd metal primers. In both systems, SMEs reduced VOCs using approximately two-thirds the level required for PCBTF while delivering comparable—or superior—performance. In wood clearcoats, soy solvent packages matched PCBTF in overall performance with minor dry time tradeoffs. In alkyd primers, SMEs improved flexibility, impact resistance and corrosion protection, outperforming both commercial benchmarks and petroleum-based VOC-reduction strategies.

Attendees will gain insight into formulation strategies, performance testing results and practical considerations for incorporating soy-based solvents into compliant, high-performance coatings. Join us to explore how U.S. soy can help manufacturers meet evolving regulatory demands while advancing sustainability and technical excellence.

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Beyond Biocides: Mechanistic Evidence for Nonlethal In-Can Preservation in Waterborne Formulations

In-can preservation of waterborne coatings is under increasing pressure from regulatory, toxicological and sustainability requirements, yet formulators still need robust protection against microbial spoilage. Earlier work introduced a multifunctional buffer-based additive concept intended not as a classical biocide, but as a formulation approach designed to suppress microbial proliferation through control of the formulation environment.

The new work presented here goes beyond concept introduction and focuses on mechanistic evidence for how this system behaves in comparison with conventional CIT/MIT preservation. Comparative studies were conducted using microbiological testing, flow-cytometric differentiation and fluorescence microscopy.

The results indicate that the investigated system does not act through the classical irreversible kill mechanism associated with CIT/MIT. Instead, the data support a predominantly physical, non-cytotoxic mode of action in which microbial activity is suppressed without the clear signatures of membrane-destructive biocidal action. In addition, pH-shift experiments suggest that this effect is at least partly reversible, further distinguishing this approach from conventional in-can biocides and pointing to a preservation concept based on environmental control rather than toxicological knockdown.

Recent development work has also broadened the practical formulation space of this approach. While the earlier concept centered on alkaline waterborne systems, modified variants now extend the accessible pH range, including lower-pH regions through incorporation of chitosan-based functionality. This expansion is important because it opens the discussion from a niche preservation concept to a broader formulation strategy for diverse waterborne systems.

The paper will discuss what these findings mean for coatings formulators in practical terms: this system should not be viewed as a one-to-one replacement for classical biocides, but as a distinct preservation approach with its own operating logic, formulation dependencies and process implications. Special emphasis will be placed on differentiating "kill" from "control," on the role of pH and matrix design and on the opportunities and limitations of non-lethal preservation strategies for next-generation waterborne coatings.

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Thermal Management Dispersions

Improving the thermal management of coatings through the incorporation of well dispersed solids. Boron Nitride, Graphene and Carbon Nanotubes can deliver heat management with efficient loadings in coatings.

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The First 24 Hours of a Latex Paint Film

The first hours after application represent the most critical stage in the life of a latex paint film. During this period, multiple physical and chemical processes occur simultaneously, including water evaporation, particle packing, polymer deformation and interdiffusion of polymer chains. The balance between these processes determines whether a coating will form a continuous, durable film or develop early-stage defects that compromise long-term performance.

Although architectural coatings are often described as “dry” within a few hours, the coating film continues to evolve for many more hours as coalescence progresses and mechanical properties develop. Insufficient film formation or premature exposure to mechanical stress can lead to problems such as blocking, print damage, surface deformation, poor stain resistance or early scrub failure.

This presentation examines the evolution of latex paint films during the first 24 hours after application and demonstrates how early drying behavior influences coating performance. Using a series of laboratory experiments and ASTM-based test methods, the study follows the development of coating properties from the wet film stage through the first day of drying.

Key properties monitored during this time period include drying stages, tack development, early block resistance, print resistance, stain sensitivity and early scrub resistance. Standardized test methods such as ASTM D5895, ASTM D1640, ASTM D3928, ASTM D4946, ASTM D2064 and ASTM D2486 are used to evaluate how coating performance evolves during the first hours after application.

The presentation will also discuss how formulation parameters—including binder glass transition temperature (Tg), coalescent type and level, pigment volume concentration (PVC) and rheology modifier selection—affect early film formation and performance.By visualizing the timeline of coating evolution during the first 24 hours, this work provides practical insight into why coatings that appear dry may still be vulnerable to damage and how formulators can optimize latex paint systems to achieve both reliable film formation and improved early performance.

The results highlight the importance of understanding early film development when designing architectural coatings for real-world application conditions.

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Journey to a Water-Based Alternative for Solvent-Based Conversion Varnish

Since the 1940’s and 50’s, solvent-based acid catalyzed conversion varnishes have been a standard coating for furniture and cabinets in the US. Their combination of aesthetics, durability and ease of use have kept them a market leading technology in this segment ever since. Attempts since the early 1990’s to replace them with other lower VOC technologies, such as 2K water-based polyurethane and water-based acrylic, have had minimal adoption in the US. Applicators complain of too many thin coats and grain raise which slows production. US consumers complain that the appearance is not the same as the rich and warm appearance of the conversion varnish. Also, environmental regulations have put little pressure on US based manufacturers to change over the years.

However, this situation is changing. Emission and VOC challenges can impact a manufacturing location’s permitting and expansion plans. Also, more attention is being given to waste generation and clean up as manufacturers try to comply with corporate SG&A goals. Even the consumer’s perspective is playing a greater role in influencing a coating choice. The public’s perception of a product's odor and indoor air quality are ever increasing. Imagine the opportunities a 1-component water-based coating that performs like 2-component acid catalyzed conversion varnish would present.

This paper will show the developmental achievements in designing 1-component water-based acrylic resins. These have shown to perform equally to market leading solvent-based conversion varnish in film build with acceptable grain raise, block resistance and minimal odor. This innovation will dramatically reduce emissions by around 60% while maintaining the look and feel of traditional solvent-based conversion varnish that the US customer desires.

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Sustainability and Antimicrobial Performance: A Technical Strategy for Laboratory-Scale Testing of Durable Antimicrobial Performance

Numerous factors are driving the use of antimicrobial technologies in coatings, particularly as manufacturers seek to improve durability, reduce maintenance and extend service life. In coating applications, antimicrobial additives play an important role in supporting resistance to fungal and algal growth across a wide range of industrial and consumer products.To better understand how antimicrobial performance holds up under real-world conditions, environmental variables that impact biological growth—both individually and in combination—can be evaluated during the product development process. Using established industry methods such as ASTM D3273, ASTM D5590 and ASTM D5589, coated materials are assessed under conditions including UV exposure, temperature cycling and condensation that are commonly encountered in-service environments.

Both standardized methods and customized environmental durability approaches that incorporate controlled algal exposure under simulated weathering conditions can provide further insight into coating performance. These approaches enable evaluation of surface susceptibility to algal growth under combined environmental stressors, offering a more representative assessment of real-world performance.

This presentation will discuss the primary factors influencing fungal and algal growth, particularly when combined with other environmental stressors and will highlight limitations in certain antimicrobial systems under realistic conditions.

Overall, environmental durability and antimicrobial performance are closely linked and evaluating them together can provide valuable insight into real-world product performance. Incorporating these variables in product development allows for better identification of performance limitations and supports the design of more durable, effective coatings.

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The Future of Sustainable Black Pigments

The Coatings market has a long-standing unmet need for sustainable developments. While progress has been made with resin and additive technologies, there are significant challenges in developing pigments that have lower environmental impact. These new pioneering pigments must meet stringent performance requirements, be ready for supply chain integration and remain financially viable. As a result, they face a high technical threshold. Targeting a universally used color space, Sun Chemical has developed a novel carbon-based black that delivers a much-needed sustainable solution across all industries.

This presentation will discuss how, unlike traditional grades, this new black pigment not only reduces carbon emissions, but also utilizes renewable resources, setting a new standard for sustainability in the coatings industry. With broad applicability, this next-generation pigment enables Coating companies to address their ESG goals and embrace the future of a sustainable planet.

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One Resin Platform, Multiple Performance Spaces: Long-Term Durability from Architectural to Athletic Surfaces

Architectural and sport court coatings demand a combination of performance and formulation flexibility.

This presentation will introduce research focused on the development and performance characterization of an all-acrylic latex approach designed to bridge traditionally separate performance spaces under a single platform.A high solids binder system is evaluated in both clear and pigmented coatings across a range of sheen levels from flat to semi gloss. Performance in exterior vertical applications was assessed with respect to adhesion, gloss retention, dirt pickup resistance and durability. These properties were not evaluated solely through accelerated laboratory testing; performance was further validated through more than four years of real world exterior exposure. The resulting field data provides a foundation for correlating long term durability with performance trends observed under controlled testing conditions.

The applicability of the same polymer technology is also evaluated in sports surface color-coat systems, where resistance to mechanical abrasion, scrub durability and tolerance for high pigment-to-binder ratios are critical performance requirements. The ability to address both architectural and athletic surface applications within a single polymer platform indicates how targeted polymer design can streamline formulation approaches while extending achievable performance ranges.

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Improved Adhesion with Polycaprolactone Polyols

Adhesion remains a critical challenge for coatings, particularly for low-surface-energy substrates such as thermoplastics and aluminum. This work introduces novel polycaprolactone (PCL) polyols designed to improve the adhesion of two-component polyurethane (2K PU) systems to various substrates while maintaining durability and processing efficiency.

We present a simple, cost-effective methodology for screening adhesion performance that combines surface energy assessment, contact angle analysis and standardized adhesion tests. This proposed approach enables formulators to rapidly evaluate the impact of resin design on interfacial bonding.

The study demonstrates how polymer design can influence key film properties and show that incorporating PCL enhances flexibility and durability under various environmental stresses.

Case studies highlight significant adhesion improvements on untreated PVC and other challenging substrates through low-level PCL polyol incorporation. Beyond adhesion, these polyols deliver secondary benefits including hydrolysis resistance, weathering stability and lower VOC potential via high-solids formulations.

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Next-Generation Fouling Mitigation: Bridging Technology Gaps Through Innovation

Marine biofouling remains a persistent challenge for the maritime industry, directly impacting hydrodynamic performance, fuel consumption, greenhouse gas emissions and operating costs. Fouling development is governed by complex physical, chemical and biological processes, beginning with surface conditioning and microbial attachment and progressing to hard-fouling growth (tubeworms to barnacles). As a result, effective fouling mitigation requires more than coating durability alone; it depends on a fundamental understanding of surface organism interactions, material properties and environmental exposure conditions. Fouling control technologies have evolved from early tin-based systems to modern copper- and zinc-based biocidal antifoulings, alongside increasing adoption of biocide-free fouling release coatings. These approaches rely on distinct mechanisms, including controlled biocide release, polymer erosion, surface energy modulation, each offering specific benefits and limitations under increasingly stringent regulatory and sustainability expectations. There is also ongoing market transition from traditional antifoulings to high-performance, environmentally responsible solutions highlights gaps in both technology and performance prediction.

This presentation provides a high-level overview of marine fouling mitigation technologies for ship hulls, with emphasis on the fundamental mechanisms that govern their effectiveness. Traditional antifouling systems, advanced fouling release coatings and emerging hybrid concepts are discussed in the context of material design, surface chemistry and application methods. Recent innovations, such as electrostatic application techniques and multifunctional coating architectures, are highlighted alongside limitations in laboratory screening, accelerated testing and in-service performance correlation. Finally, opportunities for collaboration between coating manufacturers, raw material suppliers and external technology partners are presented as pathways to accelerate the development of next-generation fouling control solutions aligned with evolving industry demands.

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Mica-Based Effect Pigments for Long-Term Weatherable Coatings: Performance, Protection and Design Freedom

Mica-based effect pigments have evolved from decorative metallic alternatives to highly engineered functional materials capable of delivering exceptional long-term weatherability in demanding coating environments. When properly engineered with advanced metal oxide coatings and optimized platelet structures, mica effect pigments provide durable color travel, metallic brilliance and solar reflectivity while maintaining resistance to UV degradation, moisture ingress and chemical exposure.

This presentation will examine the structure–performance relationship of mica-based effect pigments, focusing on how substrate quality, platelet geometry and metal oxide layer composition influence optical effects and durability. Special attention will be given to weathering mechanisms in exterior coatings, including UV exposure, thermal cycling, hydrolytic stress and pollutant attack and how high-performance mica pigments mitigate these degradation pathways.

Attendees will gain practical insights into selecting and formulating mica-based effect pigments for exterior applications requiring multi-year color retention, gloss stability and aesthetic consistency under severe environmental conditions.

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A Smart Buffer System to Help Maintain Target pH and Support Regulatory Alignment of Formulations

Water-based products generally require additives to maintain their shelf life. Biocides are commonly employed for this purpose; however, they are subject to regulatory scrutiny under the OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard and Canada’s WHMIS.

Biocides registered under the FIFRA/ Canadian Pest Control may be associated with significant health hazards, such as skin sensitization, necessitating appropriate hazardous substance labelling. The permissible thresholds for biocides in water-based products are frequently revised downward, typically on an annual basis, to enhance consumer and professional safety. This necessitates continuous reformulation by manufacturers. Compounding this challenge, the selection of biocides available on the market are limited and anticipated future reclassifications are likely to further reduce the number of available biocides.This situation places producers in a predicament. On one hand, there is a clear imperative to reduce hazardous additives and provide safe products to consumers. On the other hand, there is a demand from the market for durable products, driving the search for innovative and more sustainable solutions.

The objective of this presentation is to illustrate how a new non-biocidal technology may enhance product stability without necessitating hazardous labelling.

The smart booster technology integrates moderately high pH and pH buffering technology to provide 1-in-2-solution for improving the long-term stability of water-based systems. The products are based on multifunctional neutralizing agents engineered specifically to address these challenges. One can substitute hazardous neutralizing agent and reduce the biocide concentration at the same time.

Comparative case studies focusing on long shelf-life are presented to demonstrate the advantages of the novel biocide-booster technology. The studies show the possibility to formulate products with reduced biocide contents while maintaining stability. Moreover, a comparison test with different neutralizing agents is discussed in detail. Special attention is given to the compliance with the abovementioned regulations and the criteria of Ecolabel systems.

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Faster Drying and Earlier Final Cure of Waterborne Coatings with Microfibrillated Cellulose

Drying speed is a key factor for waterborne coatings, especially in applications requiring fast return-to-service or high productivity. The overall drying process is controlled by water evaporation, particle packing and final film formation. Technologies that improve water transport and reduce surface skinning can shorten the total drying time and bring the coating to its final cure faster.

Microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) is a bio-based, insoluble fibrillar additive consisting of fibrils with lateral dimensions below micron size and lengths up to micron scale. MFC forms a fibril network inside the wet film. This 3D structure keeps capillaries open longer and allows water to move toward the surface throughout the drying process. As a result, the surface does not prematurely skin and evaporation proceeds efficiently across the entire film thickness.

In this work, the effect of MFC on drying speed was evaluated in two waterborne high-build systems: an insulation coating based on a 100% acrylic binder and a basement coating based on an acrylic copolymer binder. The addition of MFC reduced drying time significantly compared to references, with the insulation coating showing up to a 50% reduction in the time required to reach the same weight loss. Importantly, the faster drying did not compromise other performance parameters.

This study shows that MFC is an effective approach to achieve faster drying and earlier film development in waterborne coatings while maintaining robust coating performance.

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AI-Driven Coatings Innovation from Discovery to Commercialization

From discovery to design to launch, coatings R&D is becoming increasingly data-driven. This session will walk through how AI can add value at every step of the formulation process.

At the start of a new project, AI discovery tools help formulators search institutional knowledge with natural language, immediately surfacing relevant past work. In the lab, AI-guided design of experiments helps plan the most efficient path through a new design space, while inverse design models suggest formulation candidates most likely to hit target properties. Beyond R&D, AI can be deployed externally, turning a manufacturer's product portfolio into a 24/7 technical sales channel for customers.

Together, these capabilities show how AI compounds value across the full arc of innovation, from the first experiment to the final product.

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Designing Better Coatings Through Rheology

Getting coatings to behave the way you want isn’t always straightforward. They need to store well, apply easily and perform reliably.

This presentation takes a practical look at how rheology helps connect those dots.The presentation will walk through how formulation choices influence flow and stability and how simple testing approaches can give clearer direction during development.

Attendees will come away with a better feel for how to use rheology as a tool for solving everyday formulation challenges.

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Novel Waterborne Alkyd Resin for Architectural Coatings

Polynt has developed a novel waterborne alkyd resin that exhibits enhanced scrub resistance, faster dry time and improved hot block resistance without sacrificing flexibility or other performance properties. The resin architecture was optimized through the controlled incorporation of both hard and soft polymer segments to achieve a balance between mechanical performance and film formation. The resin system comprises two key components:

An alkyd resin engineered to provide improved hot block resistance without compromising dry time or gloss development.
A tailored surfactant package designed to reduce surface tension while minimizing its plasticizing effects.

This presentation showcases the unique performance properties of a prototype waterborne alkyd resin.

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Optimizing Surface Defect Control in Heavy-Duty Epoxy Applications

Due to their durability properties, epoxy systems are a popular option for end users applying coatings in tough environments. As an example, floors installed in kitchens, garages, manufacturing plants and office spaces – which are susceptible to foot traffic and exposure to adverse conditions - are common places where epoxy paints are applied. These coatings provide excellent hardness, chemical resistance and adhesion to concrete. However, surface defects, both during and after application, can occur in epoxy systems, especially when applied at high film builds, in unfavorable application conditions or combining different types of pigments, ultimately diminishing the final look of the coating. Common surface defects include craters, foam, haze, pigment float, pinholes and orange peel.

This presentation will highlight additive technologies that address the aforementioned defects and enhance surface quality, promoting improved application performance resulting in both optimal performance and aesthetics. Performance results will showcase maximized clarity and appearance in waterborne, solventborne, pigmented and unpigmented 2K epoxy systems. Featured technologies include non-PFAS and low-cyclosiloxane (<0.1% by weight) flow, leveling and defoaming additives designed to reduce impact from trending regulatory requirements.< p>

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Hansen Solubility Parameters – A Scientific Approach for Coating Formulators

In solventborne coating formulations, finding a good solvent or solvent combination is key to obtaining good solubility and a coating with the right film integrity, viscosity and stability. Even if you have the right solvent or combination of solvents, you may need to replace one of them due to sustainability, safety, odor, availability or cost. However, identifying alternatives is challenging and time consuming since it requires numerous laboratory tests.

Hansen Solubility Parameters (HSP) provides a quantitative framework for predicting solubility, similarity and compatibility among polymers, pigments, resins and solvents. It characterizes materials by their interactions and cohesive energies of Dispersion forces, Polar forces and Hydrogen Bonding forces. The main rule of the Hansen Solubility Parameters is simple; if two different molecules (i.e. solvent and a resin) have similar Hansen parameters, they will have good compatibility.

In this presentation, I will explain how the Hansen Solubility Parameters model can help select the best alternatives for a variety of formulations.

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Maximizing the Potential of HEUR Thickeners in Tinted Systems and Beyond

Viscosity loss when tinting base paints with colorants is a common issue that can have wide-ranging detrimental effects on the performance of the paint. When the high surfactant load in the colorants interferes with associative thickener efficiency, it can not only lower sag resistance and storage stability, but it can also cause color issues, destabilization and reagglomeration, resulting in reduced color strength and increased rubout. There are various workarounds that can counter this issue, but they often introduce other compromises in other attributes of the paint. However, HEUR-type associative thickeners exist that perform even in the presence of surfactants or glycol ether solvents. This presentation outlines the principles behind the design of these HEURs, variations of which span the range of rheology influence from Newtonian to highly pseudoplastic and which also includes an option with significant bio-based renewable content. Examples are presented that demonstrate their efficacy across application methods, with excellent thickening persistence in the presence of surfactants and glycols and minimized impact on color development and color acceptance of tinting systems.

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A Coatings Revolution: Practical, Affordable Nanomaterials Enabling Exception Performance

Nano materials can enable our modern lives, but inefficiently and at a high cost, preventing their broad application. Faster, more robust electronics, stronger concrete, lighter weight automotive and aerospace parts and long lasting coatings all are depending upon nanomaterials.

Nanocatalytics critically and uniquely enables affordable nanomaterials by using two to three orders of magnitude less, delivering breakthrough performance at far lower costs.

We enable fasting curing, much lower cost conductive and or incredibly tough coatings through our three platform technologies.

The presentation will discuss the three product technologies and the basic science behind how and why they work.

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Using Low-Field (LF) NMR Relaxation to Accelerate Surfactant Selection and Dosage Optimization in Waterborne Coatings

Surfactant selection in waterborne coatings remains one of the most empirical parts of formulation work. In practice, formulators must identify not only the right additive/excipient chemistry, but also the optimum concentration window as well as any interaction effects that arise when surfactants are combined with dispersants, binders, pigments and other formulation components. This often leads to broad screening programs, repeated reformulation and late discovery of unfavorable side effects.

This presentation introduces a practical screening approach based on LF-NMR relaxation to support faster and more structured surfactant selection in waterborne coatings. Rather than relying solely on conventional trial-and-error testing, the method uses a formulation matrix in which surfactant chemistry, dosage and selected additive combinations are varied systematically within a controlled base system. The resulting LF-NMR relaxation response patterns are then used to compare additive behavior across the matrix and identify meaningful differences in liquid-phase interactions.

The study is designed to address three formulation questions that are highly relevant in industrial practice: first, how to distinguish between surfactants that appear similar in standard screening but interact differently with the formulation environment; second, how to identify useful concentration windows rather than relying on isolated dosage points; and third, how to detect potentially deleterious cross-effects between surfactants and adjacent additives before they become visible in longer and more expensive testing programs. Selected conventional formulation tests are used for validation, with the goal of showing how LF-NMR relaxation can improve screening efficiency rather than replace established performance testing.

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Drones, Robotics and AI, Oh My! The Future of Paint Application

Drones and robotic systems are poised to become an increasingly important part of the paint and coatings industry. From aerial drones coating building façades and roofs to autonomous robots painting interior walls, these technologies promise to improve safety, productivity and coating quality. As labor shortages continue to challenge the construction industry and automation technologies advance, robotic coating systems will likely become more common on job sites around the world. For coatings manufacturers, contractors and technology developers, the convergence of robotics and coatings represents one of the most exciting opportunities in the future of surface finishing.

The presentation will discuss the future of paint application, with an overview of available technologies, companies and services, as well as taking a look at the path forward.

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Meeting the Challenge of Rule 1151 with Formulary Approaches Using Resins and Additives

Rule 1151 was instituted by the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) in the US. Rule 1151’s primary focus is to reduce volatile air contaminants (VOCs), toxic air contaminants, ozone-depleting compounds and global-warming compounds from automotive refinishing coatings and solvents used in the manufacture of vehicles, mobile equipment and associated parts. This new regulation impacts the Automotive industry in that it not only establishes lower VOC criteria, but also removes key VOC exempt solvents as tools for formulators, creating a significant challenge to meeting the new standards. To address this, work was done at BASF to explore formulary approaches to meeting Rule 1151 VOC criteria using resins and additives within the BASF portfolio. Case study experiments with clearcoat formulations were done to examine the impact on VOC while providing good film and application properties through this formulation methodology/approach. The results of this work and the formulary strategies and approaches used will be detailed in this presentation, highlighting various resins and additives used to meet the various VOC criteria milestones of the new regulation. This work will demonstrate the potential impact of formulary approaches towards meeting the Rule 1151 criteria.

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Additive Effects on Flash Rust Control and Corrosion Resistance of Waterborne Epoxies

Waterborne (WB) epoxy coatings are attractive sustainable alternatives for metal protection. However, technological limitations continue to restrict their corrosion performance and broader application. This work investigates additive-based strategies to improve flash rust control and long-term corrosion resistance in both 1K and 2K WB epoxies.

The study is conducted in two phases. First, a screening design of experiments identifies effective anti-flash rust additives. Coatings applied to steel substrates are evaluated using two different drying conditions and localized water drop tests to compare additive efficiency. In the second phase, a full factorial design examines interactions between anti-corrosive pigments and liquid anti-corrosive additives. Corrosion protection is assessed through accelerated immersion in a 5 wt.% NaCl solution and by salt spray testing (ASTM B-117).

The results establish formulation guidelines for high-performance waterborne epoxy coatings with enhanced corrosion protection for industrial applications.

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Resins and Reasons for the SuperDurable Powder Coatings Surge

This presentation will provide a description of the key attributes of superdurable powder coatings that are driving the rapid increase in their production and use. After reviewing representative end use applications, the presentation will give an overview of the specifications that define this class of coatings and examine how U.S. and European standards differ. These requirements will then be related to the underlying resin chemistry, with a focus on superdurable polyester systems. Differences in physical properties and performance characteristics will be discussed in the context of structure–property relationships and formulation considerations.

Lastly, the presentation will explore how ongoing developments in superdurable resin technology are shaping the future direction of the powder coatings industry.

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PFAS-Free Additives to Improve Washability of Architectural Coatings

Developing architectural coatings with superior washability is a complex challenge due to the wide range of household stains and their varying chemistries. This presentation explores PFAS-free additives ability to alter coating surface properties. Formulating with these additives produce coatings with improved washability on multiple stain types. Additives washability performance is benchmarked against a PFAS control and standard nonionic wetting agent using both hydrophilic and hydrophobic stains.

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Lotus Effect vs Self-Draining Technology

Building protection involves measures to safeguard structures from damage, ensuring long-term durability and functionality. One of the primary challenges in this regard is moisture infiltration, which can lead to structural degradation and facilitate mold growth, negatively affecting both human health and the aesthetics of buildings. Since mineral substrates have a porous and capillary structure, they tend to absorb water, which can be mitigated through high-performance coating systems such as paints and plasters.

RUDOLF’s silicon-based hydrophobizing additives enhance the performance of façade coatings by forming a protective, water-repellent and breathable layer. Silicone resin binders, combined with specialized water repellents, create a three-dimensional network that reacts with the substrate, preventing moisture accumulation within walls. Even at low concentrations, these additives produce strong beading effects, characterized by high contact angles that facilitate dirt removal and minimize soiling.Two key technologies are utilized in façade coatings:

Self-Draining Technology: This system improves the self-cleaning properties of facades by leveraging a combination of hydrophobic and photocatalytic effects. These properties help resist dirt buildup and break down environmental pollutants using sunlight and rain, maintaining a clean appearance over time.
Lotus Effect Technology: Inspired by lotus leaves, this approach employs a highly hydrophobic surface structure that repels water and prevents contaminants from adhering. Rainwater easily washes away dirt, reducing the need for frequent cleaning and preserving the building’s aesthetic appeal.

Moisture retention is a critical factor in microbial growth. Microorganisms, present everywhere, require water for nutrient absorption and energy production. Since building facades often provide optimal temperature and pH conditions for microbial growth, preventing moisture retention is essential to reducing biological contamination. Dew formation, caused by condensation of water vapor on cool surfaces, is a major contributor to prolonged surface wetness. The dew point, dependent on relative humidity and temperature, dictates when condensation occurs. For example, at 20 °C and 60% relative humidity, the dew point is 12 °C, while at 25 °C and 70% relative humidity, it rises to 19 °C.

To counteract condensation, façade coatings are designed with two opposing approaches:

Highly hydrophobic coatings prevent dew adhesion, reducing moisture retention.
Highly hydrophilic coatings promote water spreading, ensuring rapid drying.

To evaluate these coatings, an artificial dew formation test was developed. Coating systems (paint or plaster) are applied onto stainless steel plates (0.5 mm thick) with defined layer thickness (100–250 µm). The experiment consists of two phases: the condensation phase and the drying phase. During condensation, samples are placed in a climate chamber set at 23 °C and 65% relative humidity, while the sample surface is cooled to 10 °C. The weight gain due to water absorption is measured at intervals (15, 30, 45 and 60 minutes). Excess water is gently removed before each measurement.

After 60 minutes, the drying phase begins by switching off the cooling system. Weight loss is recorded every 10 minutes until the original weight is restored. The results indicate that different coating systems yield reproducible data, with maximum condensation reached after 30 minutes. Coatings with higher water saturation values exhibit longer drying times. By utilizing climate chambers, various environmental conditions can be simulated and systematically analyzed, providing valuable insights into the effectiveness of hydrophobizing façade coatings.

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High-Performance Powder Coatings – Driving Corrosion Protection Forward

Powder coatings have long been recognized for providing high-performance, durable finishes, including edge protection, that can be utilized in various end-use applications. They have become a leading technology in the development of sustainable coatings due to low waste generation and no utilization of volatile solvents. Powder coating performance, along with liquid coatings, is driven by the resin chemistry selection. But powder coatings differ from liquid systems in that they historically rely on fewer additives to optimize film properties. As the industry continues to migrate to powder technology, competition will grow and the optimization of these systems will be essential to extend performance and achieve a competitive advantage. Case studies evaluating the use of corrosion inhibitive pigments in a polyester/TGIC powder coating and a HAA/polyester powder coating will demonstrate the performance advantages that can be achieved in a non-traditional metal protective system.

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Formulating Durable, Easy-to-Clean Functionality Through PFAS-Free Additive Design

Easy-to-clean performance in paint and coatings is important because it helps surfaces maintain their appearance, reduces visible dirt and stains and enhances the overall perception of quality. Coatings that resist soiling are easier and less costly to maintain. This not only preserves long-term aesthetics such as gloss, color and smoothness, but also protects the coating and substrate from degradation caused by contaminants. By improving durability, reducing maintenance demands and supporting sustainability goals, easy-to-clean properties add significant value across industrial coating applications. This study examines PFAS-free BYK additive solutions that enhance long-term easy-to-clean performance across various resin chemistries, with an emphasis on solvent-based systems.

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Functionalized Olefinic Copolymers as Modular Resins or Additives for Next-Generation Coating Formulations

Coating formulators routinely navigate complex tradeoffs to achieve desired properties in adhesion, toughness, elasticity and compatibility. They use combinations of resins and additives that make tuning individual properties challenging and add formulation complexity.

This presentation explores the use of functionalized olefinic block copolymers incorporating pendant amine functionality as a modular polymer approach that can function either as a formulation additive or as a resin component, depending on polymer design. The combination of a phase-separated olefinic architecture with targeted amine functionality creates a platform for desirable interactions with pigments, substrates and co-binders, offering formulators an additional design lever beyond traditional resin selection.

Rather than focusing on specific application outcomes, the talk will emphasize polymer design principles, hypothesized structure–property relationships and formulation considerations associated with pendant amine incorporation. Potential roles of these polymers as either additives or resin components will be discussed, along with key variables formulators may consider when evaluating this type of material in early-stage development.

Attendees will gain a conceptual framework for how functionalized block copolymer architectures can be used as a performance-oriented formulation tool, offering insight into an emerging materials approach that may enable new formulation strategies as coating performance demands continue to evolve.

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Advancing Pigment Dispersion in Powder Coatings: Mechanisms, Formulation Strategies

Pigment dispersion remains one of the most critical—and often underestimated—factors in the performance of powder coatings. While advancements in resin chemistry and curing technologies have significantly evolved over the years, the ability to effectively disperse and stabilize pigments continues to define key attributes such as color strength, gloss, mechanical integrity and long-term durability.

As a result, the role of additives has shifted from being supportive to an absolute necessity in achieving optimal dispersion. Within this evolving landscape, BYK has established itself as a leader in providing superior dispersing additives, thus offering solutions for the unique challenges of powder coatings.

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Novel SPUD Resin Modifier Amps Performance PFAS-Free

A novel siloxane-modified polyurethane dispersion (SPUD) has been developed to enhance the performance of waterborne coating systems across multiple application areas, including roofing, wood and architectural coatings. This study focuses on the incorporation of SPUD into paint formulations through blending with a conventional acrylic resin and evaluates its impact on key performance properties.

The addition of SPUD resulted in significant improvements in coating durability and surface performance. Water immersion testing demonstrated exceptional resistance, with no observable impact on the coating surface after seven days of continuous exposure. Dirt pick-up resistance was also markedly enhanced compared to an all-acrylic control, indicating improved surface cleanliness and reduced maintenance requirements. Furthermore, SPUD contributed positively to block resistance for the modified system.

These results highlight the potential of SPUD technology as a versatile additive for improving the performance of coatings without compromising formulation compatibility. The findings suggest that siloxane-modified polyurethane dispersions can play a key role in next-generation high-performance waterborne coatings.

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New White Pigment for Industrial Coatings

For decades, titanium dioxide (TiO₂) has been the primary pigment used to deliver whiteness and opacity in coating formulations. However, increasing price volatility and ongoing supply chain challenges have driven demand for alternatives and strategies to reduce TiO₂ usage. U.S. Silica introduces EverWhite®, a white mineral-based pigment solution that enables partial replacement of TiO₂ in both solventborne and waterborne coatings without compromising whiteness, brightness, durability or opacity. This presentation highlights the application of EverWhite® in solventborne coatings, where up to 50% of TiO₂ can be replaced with minimal impact on processing requirements and overall performance.

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Dry-State Paints: Novel Approach and Fast Transition

A global 'regulatory tsunami' impacts many key components of conventional paint making. Combined with recurring oil and supply chain pressures, the presentation asks whether now is the time to re-evaluate modern 'dry-state' alternatives for the Architectural paint sector? Ross will cover both the pros and cons of dry-state and an innovative low-capex transition method with many hidden benefits.

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The Art of the Cure

A cured part is what everyone expects from a powder coating process. We all understand it is time and temperature. The technical data sheet for the powder is the recipe, right? It sounds so simple, but we all know it often is not, especially when coating a differing range of parts or heavy weldments. Finding out hours or days later that a part didn’t pass cure in a quality check is not the way to learn that there is a process problem. How do you verify an acceptable cure? How often? Is energy being wasted by overcuring? Convection is fairly straightforward or is it? What about using infrared to cure? Optimizing cure productivity while not sacrificing quality is the goal. This discussion will help attendees better understand how ovens deliver a cured part and different types of heating technologies in use - preheat, gel, boost and cure to ensure an ideal cure.

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Silicone Resin Alternatives to Fluorinated Resins for Protective Coatings

Fluorinated resins have been widely used for decades in many different coating applications including architectural and decorative powder coatings to heavy duty industrial, non-stick and transportation coatings. These high-performance polymers provide outstanding durability and protection to valuable assets, where long-term performance and exposure to harsh environments are key attributes that must be met. However, these resins could be considered as containing polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and therefore subject to the increasing regulatory framework around these materials. Coatings formulators may need to find viable alternatives without sacrificing performance or cost such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) binders for cookware or polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) resins for protective coatings.

Siloxane modified or hybrid resins are some of the most promising alternatives to fluoropolymers due to their excellent durability, hydrophobic characteristics and in some cases heat-resistance. These chemically bonded, hybrid-polymers can be functionalized with alkoxy or other different reactive groups, providing film properties that outperform other conventional polymeric binders such as polyurethanes, acrylics or even epoxies. The formation of highly crosslinked hybrid-polymer networks significantly improves properties such as corrosion, humidity and UV resistance, adhesion to multiple substrates, as well as abrasion and scratch resistance.

This paper provides an overview of some siloxane-modified binder systems (PUR, epoxy, polyester) and presents the data that shows how they can meet key performance attributes as viable alternatives to PFAS-containing polymers in protective and non-stick heat-resistance coatings.

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Circular Aerosol Recycling Technology

Aerosol products are widely used across industries—from paint and coatings to personal care and industrial applications—yet they present a significant environmental challenge when not properly managed. Millions of aerosol cans, many still containing residual product and propellant, are discarded each year, leading to landfill waste, loss of valuable materials and potential environmental and safety risks. The importance of aerosol recycling lies not only in waste reduction, but in recovering high-value resources such as metals, coatings, solvents and compressed gases that can be reintegrated into the manufacturing cycle.

Circular aerosol recycling represents a significant approach to this challenge. Unlike traditional disposal or limited recycling methods, a circular system ensures that every component of the aerosol can—metal, liquid contents and propellant gases—is fully recovered, processed and reused. This closed-loop model minimizes waste, reduces dependence on virgin raw materials, lowers carbon footprint and aligns with global sustainability and circular economy goals. GDB International Inc. has developed a state-of-the-art circular aerosol recycling solution that embodies these principles.

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LASER-Sustainably Engineering the World’s Fastest Paint and Powder Lines

At the Coating Trends and Technologies Summit 2026, this presentation examines how laser-based processing is transforming industrial finishing from a capital-intensive, energy-heavy operation into a streamlined, data-driven manufacturing advantage. As coating operations face increasing pressure to improve throughput, reduce environmental impact and maximize asset utilization, laser technology offers a differentiated path to measurable performance gains.

Laser curing fundamentally shifts the economics of powder coating by delivering energy precisely where and when it is needed. Compared to conventional convection ovens, it can reduce cure times by 60–90% while shrinking equipment footprint by up to 75%. These improvements translate directly into higher line throughput, reduced work-in-process inventory, lower energy costs and increased manufacturing flexibility—particularly valuable in high-mix, demand-variable environments.

Complementing this, laser cleaning replaces traditional aqueous pretreatment systems with a dry, automated process that eliminates water consumption, chemical handling and wastewater treatment. Beyond sustainability benefits, this transition reduces operational complexity and variability, resulting in more consistent surface preparation and improved coating performance.

The session will quantify the business case for laser adoption through a side-by-side comparison with conventional finishing methods, highlighting total cost of ownership, scalability and ESG impact. A conceptual “15-minute end-to-end” finishing line will illustrate how integrating laser cleaning, powder application, curing and inline inspection can compress cycle times while simplifying plant layout and logistics.

Implementation considerations will be addressed from a strategic perspective, including capital investment planning, integration into existing operations (brownfield vs. greenfield), safety compliance and digital control architectures.Designed for manufacturing leaders, operations executives and technical decision-makers, this session provides a practical framework for evaluating laser technology as both a process improvement and a competitive differentiator.

Attendees will leave with a clear roadmap to assess ROI, de-risk adoption through pilot programs and scale deployment in alignment with broader operational and sustainability goals.

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PFAS-Free Omniphobic Fabric Coatings through Surface Engineering

The replacement of PFAS in fabric coatings remains a significant challenge. It is particularly difficult to achieve oil repellency against low surface tension liquids while maintaining durability and compatibility with waterborne processing. This presentation focuses on PFAS-free omniphobic coatings for textiles, with performance evaluated using the AATCC 118 oil repellency test method. We first highlight the limitations of current non-fluorinated systems.

The presentation will present a surface engineering approach that integrates controlled morphology with tailored interfacial chemistry to reduce liquid wetting

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Recycling Sustainably of Paint and Raw Materials with Circular-Reuse

Paints and Paint Raw-materials are value items. Working the leftover paints, its by-products, washes, expired, raw-materials with a process that explains on a few points:

Financial advantages.
Environmental impact.
Sustainability.
Costing and inflation.
Greenhouse effect and carbon footprint.

The presentation will also discuss in-depth EPA norms, IRS regulations. Detailed explanation on how by following steps a manufacturer could convert waste stream into usable items, that can further move into benefiting the communities.

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How to Reduce Formulation Costs

The profitability of a coatings company very much depends on having competitively priced formulas. In this presentation the speaker will show you how to develop cost-effective formulations and a number of strategies and techniques to effectively reduce the cost of existing formulas when the need arises.

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2026 Agenda

Tuesday, September 15, 2026

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Short Course I Surfactants and Rheology: Chemistry, Theory, Mechanism and Application

Short Course II Resins for Coatings

12:00 PM - 1:00

Lunch Break

1:00 PM - 4:00

Short Course III Film Formation, Drying and Early Performane of Latex Paints - from MFFT to Blocking Resistance (ASTM-Based Approach)

Short Course IV Designing Powder Coatings for Harsh Environments - from Pipelines to Electric Vehicles

4:00 - 5:30

Hospitality Reception

Wednesday, September 16, 2026

7:15 AM - 8:15

Networking Breakfast

8:20 - 9:15

Keynote Presentation Coatings in the Era of Smart Manufacturing: Productivity and Sustainability Ahead

9:15 - 9:25

Presentation of Lifetime Achievement Award

9:25 - 10:10

Panel Discussion Organic Growth vs. Open Innovation in Coatings R&D

10:15 - 11:00

Morning Networking Break

11:05 - 11:35

Resin Developments for Wood Coatings Soy-Based Polyurethane-Acrylic Hybrid Dispersion Technology for Low-VOC Wood Coatings

Energy-Cure Coatings UV Coatings for Metal Coil Applications

Concrete Coatings Designing Acrylic Polymers for High-Performance, Water-Based Concrete Coatings

Innovative Additives for Powder Coatings Silica-Based Alternative to PTFE Texturing Agents for Powder Coatings

11:40 - 12:10 PM

Resin Developments for Wood Coatings The Right Chemistry: Structure-Property Insights for Next-Generation Wood Coatings

Energy-Cure Coatings Opportunities for Energy-Cure Coatings in the Advanced Air Mobility Marketplace

Concrete Coatings Colloidal Silica for Topical Cement Applications

Innovative Additives for Powder Coatings Sustainable Mineral Innovation: A Multifunctional, PFAS-Free, and Low-Carbon Solution for Next-Generation Powder Coatings

12:10 - 1:20

Networking Lunch / Student Poster Session Open

1:25 - 1:55 PM

Advancing Architectural Coating Performance Hollow Borosilicate Glass Microspheres as Multifunctional Fillers for Next-Generation Cool Roof Coatings

Innovations in Industrial Coatings Breaking the PCBTF Barrier: High-Performance Soy Solvents Redefining Low-VOC Coatings

Preservation and Fouling Control Beyond Biocides: Mechanistic Evidence for Nonlethal In-Can Preservation in Waterborne Formulations

Pigments and Dispersions Thermal Management Dispersions

2:00 - 2:30

Advancing Architectural Coating Performance The First 24 Hours of a Latex Paint Film

Innovations in Industrial Coatings Journey to a Water-Based Alternative for Solvent-Based Conversion Varnish

Preservation and Fouling Control Sustainability and Antimicrobial Performance: A Technical Strategy for Laboratory-Scale Testing of Durable Antimicrobial Performance

Pigments and Dispersions The Future of Sustainable Black Pigments

2:35 - 3:05

Advancing Architectural Coating Performance One Resin Platform, Multiple Performance Spaces: Long-Term Durability from Architectural to Athletic Surfaces

Innovations in Industrial Coatings Improved Adhesion with Polycaprolactone Polyols

Preservation and Fouling Control Next Generation Fouling Mitigation: Bridging Technology Gaps Through Innovation

Pigments and Dispersions Mica-Based Effect Pigments for Long-Term Weatherable Coatings: Performance, Protection, and Design Freedom

3:10 - 3:40

Afternoon Networking Break / Student Poster Session Open

3:45 - 4:15

Advanced Additives A Smart Buffer System to Help Maintain Target pH and Support Regulatory Alignment of Formulations

Advancing Waterborne Coatings Faster Drying and Earlier Final Cure of Waterborne Coatings with Microfibrillated Cellulose

Digitalization, AI & Smart Formulation AI-Driven Coatings Innovation from Discovery to Commercialization

Formulating Strategies Designing Better Coatings Through Rheology

4:20 - 4:50

Advanced Additives Optimizing Surface Defect Control in Heavy-Duty Epoxy Applications

Advancing Waterborne Coatings Novel Waterborne Alkyd Resin for Architectural Coatings

Digitalization, AI & Smart Formulation Hansen Solubility Parameters – A Scientific Approach for Coating Formulators

Formulating Strategies Maximizing the Potential of HEUR Thickeners in Tinted Systems and Beyond

4:55 - 5:25

Advanced Additives A Coatings Revolution: Practical, Affordable Nanomaterials Enabling Exception Performance

Advancing Waterborne Coatings Using Low-Field (LF) NMR Relaxation to Accelerate Surfactant Selection and Dosage Optimization in Waterborne Coatings

Digitalization, AI & Smart Formulation Drones, Robotics, and AI, Oh My! The Future of Paint Application

Formulating Strategies Meeting the Challenge of Rule 1151 with Formulary Approaches Using Resins and Additives

5:30 - 6:45

Networking Reception

Thursday, September 17, 2026

7:30 AM - 8:30

Registration and Breakfast

8:30 - 9:00

Additives-Driven Performance Additive Effects on Flash Rust Control and Corrosion Resistance of Waterborne Epoxies

Innovations in Powder Coatings Resins and Reasons for the SuperDurable Powder Coatings Surge

PFAS-Free Innovations PFAS-Free Additives to Improve Washability of Architectural Coatings

9:05 - 9:35

Additives-Driven Performance Lotus Effect vs Self-Draining Technology

Innovations in Powder Coatings High-Performance Powder Coatings – Driving Corrosion Protection Forward