I-Tech and RISE (Research Institutes of Sweden) to host industry and academia for future marine antifouling coating solutions talks

Established researchers, coating developers and end users will unite in Gothenburg, Sweden at the inaugural International Antifouling Conference to discuss current and future coating solutions to combat the advancing global biofouling issue.

I-Tech AB and RISE Research Institutes of Sweden AB will host key discussions between marine industry end users, paint companies and academia around antifouling coating technology as the first line of defence against the intensifying issue of marine biofouling.

The International Antifouling Conference 2022 will be held on September 13-14 in the iconic Eriksberg shipyard area in Gothenburg, Sweden. The conference is backed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and funding from the Västra Götalandregionen (Sweden). The principal corporate sponsor for the conference is the specialty chemicals company, Lanxess.

Dr. Markus Hoffman, Technical Director at I-Tech, says: “The idea for this initiative was sparked when one of the principal forums at which the R&D community from the marine coatings sector usually gathers was once again postponed due to the global health crisis. With the risk profile of biofouling increasing, having an open platform to discuss the pros and cons of current technology and explore novel research, and potential new solutions is vital at this moment in time.”

Dr. Mattias Berglin, Senior Research Scientist at RISE, says: “We have already attracted a very high-level speaker program to the conference which confirms the need for this platform. Having academia, industry, and end users in one room discussing challenges and solutions will bring unique perspectives and insights for all involved.”

Over thirty expert speakers from companies including AkzoNobel, American Chemet, Chalmers University of Technology, SSPA, CorPower Ocean, Keel Crab, Annex3, Marine Benchmark, Svenska Aerogel, Tecnalia and Boero have been confirmed. Keynote addresses will be delivered by representatives from Hempel, Safinah Group, Steen-Hansen, Université de Toulon, and Stena Teknik.

In addition to the two-day conference program, delegates of the International Antifouling Conference 2022 will also enjoy an optional visit to the Kristineberg Center for Marine Research and Innovation, located on the West Coast of Sweden.

Registration for the conference can be completed via the event website: https://innovatum.confetti.events/antifouling-conference-2022/