569 attendees, around 70 exhibitors, and a program featuring 95 technical presentations: The ZVO Surface Technology Days, held for the first time in Karlsruhe, showcased an industry that is aware of its challenging operating conditions—yet is simultaneously taking very concrete steps toward its future. Artificial intelligence has finally made the transition from theory to practical application in business. At the same time, automation, resource efficiency, the circular economy, energy,…

In the machining of non-ferrous materials, diamond coatings often provide high wear resistance. However, their use on solid carbide sawing tools has often been limited, both economically and technically. These limitations have now been overcome by a new generation of nanocrystalline diamond…

How practical is AI-powered robotic painting today? Oliver Bayer and Giuseppe Palopoli from Gohm + Graf Hardenberg took a close look at the Sehon AI revolution during the workshop. In the video, they discuss the shortage of skilled workers, paint quality, process reliability, and the question of…

AI and robotics are intended to make the painting process more efficient and reduce the workload on skilled workers. In the video, Timo Sehon explains what the company has learned from its first five workshops with its painting robot—and why spot painting, material savings, and the software in…

The shutdown of Leuna Polyamid could cost an additional 30 million euros. Following the failed search for investors, the chemical plant in Leuna is being phased out. The closure will also affect the chemical site’s materials and energy network. Co-partner Leuna-Harze produces, among other things,…

Evonik plans to close two smaller sites in Hamburg and Bitterfeld in 2027 and consolidate operations there at larger German sites. The moves will affect the cosmetics and personal care products and chlorosilanes divisions. Customer supply will continue through the Essen and Rheinfelden sites.

At Aluminium 2026, Henkel will showcase new and improved Bonderite solutions for pretreatment, anodizing, and compaction. The focus will be on lower process temperatures, chromium-free processes, and a new rinse-free bonding agent.