| 12:30 - 13:30 uur |
Registration with lunch |
| 13:30 - 13:35 uur |
Opening by Andre van Linden |
| 13:35 - 14:20 uur |
The next generation of formulating: coatings with microplastic-free additives - Sven Tenbusch (Byk)
Microplastics can be found in many important products such as waxes, wetting and dispersing additives, defoamers, and adhesion promoters. Since they are used in the formulation of high-performance systems, they are widely deployed in the coatings industry. However, due to growing regulatory pressure and environmental concerns regarding the intentional addition of microplastics, there is an urgent need to rethink and reformulate coating systems to eliminate them. In this presentation we will touch on the regulatory background, microplastic-free solutions, recommendations for various product groups, and an exploration of alternative technologies promoting compliance and sustainability. |
| 14:20 - 15:00 uur |
Biobased Diluents for Epoxy-Systems - Markus Osthoff (Hobum)
The reclassification of epoxy reactive diluents such as C12–C14 glycidyl ethers as toxic to reproduction (H360F) forces formulators to search for safer, sustainable alternatives.
This study evaluates epoxidized fatty acid esters as bio-based reactive diluents for cold-curing epoxy systems. Four esters with different oxirane contents and alcohol residues were tested. Viscosity reduction and compatibility depended strongly on molecular structure: high oxirane content reduced thinning efficiency, while very low levels caused phase separation. Short-chain residues such as methyl showed the best performance, whereas bulky or aromatic groups limited the effect.
Compared with glycidyl ethers, the esters showed lower amine reactivity, resulting in longer pot life and slightly delayed curing, but similar Shore D hardness after seven days and unchanged chemical resistance. At concentrations above about 15%, a softening of the final material was observed. |
| 15:00 - 15:30 uur |
Break |
| 15:30 - 16:15 uur |
Sustainable solutions for Paints - Ton Vermeulen (Imerys)
TBA |
| 16:15 - 17:00 uur |
Room for questions and discussion
TBA |
| 17:00 - 17:30 uur |
Closure with appetizers and drinks |