At the 86th Coatings Conference of the GDCh Coatings Chemistry Division from May 15-17 in Magdeburg, the latest developments in coatings chemistry were presented in a total of 24 scientific lectures by speakers from industry, research institutes, colleges and universities. The focus was particularly on new approaches to sustainability, alternatives to the use of biocides, digitalization and new applications. The opportunity to put questions to the speakers from industry, research institutes, colleges and universities was actively used.
In addition to the presentations, there was a poster session with 13 different contributions. The authors first introduced themselves and their work to the specialist audience on stage, and during the subsequent break the specialist audience had time to talk to them directly at the poster.
Three prize awards
A total of three conference prizes were awarded. The first prize went to Felix Knospe from the Niederrhein University of Applied Sciences for his presentation entitled "Modification of ß-cyclodextrin and the use of inclusion compounds for novel corrosion protection coatings". The second presentation prize went to Dr. Jan Sütterlin from Covestro for his contribution "A New Digital Approach to Binder and Formulation Design using Monte Carlo Simulation". The prize for the best poster went to Lea Senneka from the University of Innsbruck with her contribution "Circular economy of fiber-reinforced plastics".
Summerschool as a warm-up
As every year, the three-day annual conference was preceded by the Summer School: the meeting place for students of coatings chemistry and coatings technology. This year's program included a series of exciting lectures from BMW and Mercedes Benz, among others. In addition to the lectures, the students had time to discover the city together on a guided night watchman tour and exchange ideas.
The next Summer School will take place in Aachen from September 15-17, 2025. It offers students and industry newcomers a good opportunity to gain an overview of current developments, get to know players in the coatings industry and make themselves known in the sector. Participation is free of charge for students.