The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG), in collaboration with The Wood Coatings Research Group, Inc., is presenting the 11th biennial Wood Coatings & Substrates (Wood C&S) Conference. This event will take place on September 26 and 27, 2024, at the UNCG campus in Greensboro, North Carolina. The conference will be held as a hybrid event, offering both in-person and virtual attendance options.
Program Highlights
The Wood C&S Conference gathers professionals in the wood coatings industry to engage with cutting-edge research and developments in wood substrates and coatings science. Key topics include advancements in raw materials and technology for wood coatings. The full program is available online.
Keynote Speakers
This year’s conference features two keynote addresses. Presenting Thursday’s address is Dr. Mojgan Nejad, an associate professor with a joint appointment in the Department of Forestry and Chemical Engineering and Materials Science at Michigan State University. Dr. Nejad’s keynote address, titled “Sustainable Coatings: Utilizing Lignin for the Development of Biobased Resins,” will discuss her groundbreaking research on lignin-based coatings, adhesives, foams, and composites. She is recognized for her collaborative work with industry partners and has been honored with the Adhesive and Sealant Council Innovation Award for her innovative phenolic resin formulations.
Dr. Véronic Landry, a professor in the Department of Wood and Forest Sciences and Director of the Research Center on Renewable Materials at Laval University, will deliver the Friday keynote. Dr. Landry’s address, “The Power of Confocal Raman Microscopy in Coating Analysis,” will highlight her work in developing environmentally friendly coatings and wood protection through finishing and chemical modification. Her research includes the creation of water-based, photopolymerizable, and biobased coatings, as well as functional coatings with self-healing and self-stratifying properties.
Event Details
Registration: The conference is free to attend, and on-site registration is available.
Lodging: A special rate of $125 is available at the Marriott Courtyard Greensboro Airport for reservations made by September 2.
Parking: Parking is available for $10.00 per day in the Oakland Avenue and Walker Avenue Parking Decks on the UNCG campus.
Networking Opportunities
Wood C&S Fellowship Dinner: Open to all attendees on Thursday evening. Cost and venue details will be announced soon.
Friday Lunch: Lunch will be provided on Friday, offering a valuable networking opportunity and a chance to visit sponsor booths.
Venue Information
Location: Elliott University Center, Cone Ballroom, UNCG, 540 Stirling Street, Greensboro, NC 27412
Who Should Attend?
The conference is designed for a wide range of professionals, including chemists, formulators, raw material and equipment suppliers, wood manufacturers, scientists, technologists, students, educators, and end users interested in wood coatings.
Additional Information
Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with industry experts and explore the latest advancements in wood coatings and substrates. For more details on the program, abstracts, registration, directions, and corporate sponsorship, please contact Ronald Obie at r.obie@woodcoatingsresearchgroup.com. More information can also be found on the conference website.