FSCT launches new Advancements in Coatings Series; announces Call for Papers for first two programs.

The Federation of Societies for Coatings Technology has introduced its new Advancements in Coatings Series (ACSeries). These programs have been developed in response to the industry's need for ongoing access to information on new technologies and new solutions. To be offered in various regional locations throughout the U.S., the ACSeries programs are geared towards an international audience and will focus on topics of greatest interest to the coatings and allied industries.

The ACSeries programs are being developed under the overall direction of FSCT Secretary-Treasurer Rose A. Ryntz, of Visteon Corp., and the newly formed Technical Event Coordinating Committee. The Committee will be headed by Ray A. Fernando, of Cal Poly. In addition, specific Task Forces will be formed to plan each ACSeries event.

Plans are underway for the first two ACSeries programs: "Research Methods in the 21st Century: A Toolkit for Competitive Advantages," to be held at the Marriott, in New Orleans, LA, on May 18-20, 2005, and "Nanotechnology in Coatings: Realizing the Potential," tentatively scheduled for June 8-10, 2005 in Seattle, WA.

These two programs will consist of a one-day short course, followed by a two-day symposium featuring 30-45 minute paper presentations. Presentations will be offered in separate, themed tracks. In addition, suppliers will be invited to showcase their products and services related to these areas through tabletop exhibits.

A Call for Papers has been issued for these programs.

Call for Papers: Research Methods in the 21st Century: A Toolkit for Competitive Advantages

The FSCT is seeking presentations for its upcoming ACSeries program on "Research Methods in the 21st Century: A Toolkit for Competitive Advantages." This program explores emerging technologies and techniques that provide the user with competitive advantages in developing new products in Coatings R & D. Primary focus is on Design of Experiment (DOE), High Throughput R & D (HRD), and Combinatorial Methods, but not limited to these topics.

Suggested Topics

Design of Experiment/Combinatorial Methods

* Theory

* Organization and Design

* Software (JMP, Design Expert, etc.)

* Applications/Real-life Examples

High Throughput R & D

* Design Considerations

* Automated Systems, New Instruments/Methods

-- Synthesis

-- Formulation

-- Application

-- Property Measurement/Performance

Data Acquisition and Management

* Literature/Prior Art Search Tools

-- Techniques and Tools

-- Subscribed Services (Derwent, Sci Finder, etc.)

* Strategy and Retrieval Systems

* Data Mining/Modeling/Expert Systems

* Intellectual Property Management

Potential Strategies to Cost-Effective Competency Development in High Throughput R & D

* Focus on Specific Property/Performance Measurement

* Develop an Existing Competency in the HTR Cycle

-- DOE

-- Formulation, Application, Curing

-- Property Measurement/Performance

-- Partnering Using Outside Funds

Call for Papers: Nanotechnology in Coatings: Realizing the Potential

The FSCT is seeking presentations for its upcoming ACSeries program on "Nanotechnology in Coatings: Realizing the Potential." This program explores the emerging science of nanotechnology and examines the impact nanotechnology and nano-techniques will have on the industry's future. The latest research findings will be featured.

Suggested Topics

Nanoscale Design and Synthesis

* Manufacturing, Synthesis, and Processing of Nanomaterials

* Nanostructuring Methods

* Functionalized Nanoparticles

* Dispersion and Rheology

* Nanoporous Coatings

* Nanocomposites

* Environmental and Safety Issues

Nanomaterials Characterization 

* Characterization and Properties

* Analytical Methods

* New Instrumentation

* Modeling

Markets and Applications

* Paints, Plastics, Inks

* Composites in Automotive, Biomedical, and Electronic

Information For Speakers

Those interested should provide a 150-200 word abstract, along with contact information. Include author's name(s), company name, address, telephone, fax, and email address. Send abstracts to: Rod Moon, Director of Education, FSCT, 492 Norristown Rd., Blue Bell, PA 19422-2350; or email the completed abstract form to: education @ coatingstech.org. Official abstract forms are available by contacting FSCT headquarters.

After abstracts are reviewed and the presentations are approved, authors will be required to submit a paper or a copy of the presentation slides for distribution to all registered attendees. Papers, although not required, are encouraged. Please submit all materials electronically, with an accompanying hard copy. Figures and tables should be placed at the end of the document.

Important Deadlines

Submission of abstracts: December 15, 2004

Notification of acceptance: January 15, 2005

Submission of completed paper/handouts: April 15, 2005

Who Should Attend

Scientists, formulators and engineers involved in coating development and coating process/application. Additionally, personnel dealing with polymers and resins, additives, pigments, coating sales and marketing, etc., and those involved in testing and property development will find this symposium highly informative and valuable.

Exhibits & Sponsorships

Tabletop exhibits and a variety of sponsorship programs offer valuable opportunities for suppliers to increase contacts and showcase products and services related to ACSeries topics. Information is available by contacting FSCT headquarters.

For Information

For additional information on the ACSeries programs, contact FSCT at 492 Norristown Rd., Blue Bell, PA 19422-2350; voice: 610.940.0777; fax: [phone]; email: [e-mail], or visit the website: www.coatingstech.org.