On October 1, 2026, the German Research Society for Surface Treatment (DFO) hosted its Members’ Day and General Assembly at the Remmers Group in Löningen. The annual meeting serves as a forum for professional exchange within the network, provides information on current developments within the research society, and features expert presentations. In addition to in-person attendance, online participation was also available.
The theme of sustainability dominated the program. Discussions focused on both regulatory frameworks and ongoing research related to surface treatment. In doing so, the event addressed topics that are becoming increasingly important for companies in the industry.
Sustainability and Research
Dr. Lina Warnke from Remmers shed light on regulatory requirements and their practical implementation within the company. In addition, Dr. Sergey Stepanov from the Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Technology and Applied Materials Research (IFAM) presented current research projects on the topic of sustainability. The combination of industrial practice and a research perspective provided participants with an overview of requirements and development approaches in the field of sustainable surface treatment.
The program also included a tour of the Remmers facility in Löningen. The technical presentations will subsequently be made available to DFO members via the intranet.
Next Event in Winterthur
The next DFO Members’ Day is scheduled for October 7, 2027, at Coatmaster AG in Winterthur. Ralph Mennicke extended an invitation to members to attend the event. This marks the first time the DFO is hosting its Members’ Day in Switzerland. This underscores the research society’s international network within the German-speaking world and expands the scope of the established industry gathering beyond Germany.