We were pleased to welcome representatives from Patcham FZC for a guest lecture on surfactants and coating additives, with a focus on sustainable coating technologies.

Patcham FZC, a global manufacturer of specialty additives established in 1996, shared valuable insights into their product portfolio, particularly additives used across paints, inks, polymers, and related applications. The talk highlighted their emphasis on sustainability, performance, and industrial applicability.

During the session, the experts discussed the fundamental roles of surfactants in coatings, including dispersion, wetting, and stabilization. They also addressed key trade-offs in surfactant design, such as performance versus compatibility, along with the associated challenges. In addition, the representatives highlighted the growing importance of bio-based and environmentally friendly additives, as well as industrial considerations when scaling additives from laboratory research to commercial production.

The lecture provided students with a broader perspective on how formulation chemistry translates into real-world applications, particularly in achieving high performance while meeting sustainability demands.

This visit offered an excellent opportunity for students and researchers to connect academic knowledge with industry practices. We thank Patcham FZC for their engaging presentation and for sharing their expertise!