Washington, D.C., Aug. 3, 2026 — The American Coatings Association (ACA) is seeking submission of abstracts for its 2027 CoatingsTech Conference to be held March 15-18 at the Loews Hotel in Kansas City, Mo. This biennial conference features a multi-track forum, industry awards, and presentation opportunities for both industry professionals and students. It will follow the theme, “The Power of Coatings: Advancing Sustainability & Quality of Life Through Innovation.” Abstracts will be accepted through Sept. 24, 2026.

The 2027 CoatingsTech Conference offers industry experts — including coatings manufacturers, their suppliers, universities, and government representatives —  a forum to share new research and pursue continuing education and skills development. Technology-focused sessions will be categorized to provide attendees with an opportunity to focus on individual interests and specializations.

Notably, the CoatingsTech Best Paper Award will be presented for the best overall paper contributed to the conference, and the award winner will receive a $2,500 cash prize. Student Poster Awards will be given for the top three student posters presented at the CoatingsTech Conference.

NOTE: Those submitting abstracts for consideration should know that, if accepted, they will be expected to provide a full paper (or poster, if selected for a poster session), register for the conference, provide slides and a headshot, and contribute an in-person presentation/poster for the conference.

Paper and Poster Topics

In keeping with the theme, papers and posters on the following topics are being sought:

  • Advances in Analytical Methods & Technology
  • AI Methodologies for Formulation Optimization and Coating Testing
  • Application/Manufacturing/Processing Equipment
  • Architectural Coatings
  • Biocidal Control (e.g., preservation, surface protection, antifouling)
  • Functional Coatings
  • Industrial and Factory-Applied Coatings
  • Inks and Coatings technology for Battery Manufacturing and Other New Energy Applications
  • Nanotechnology
  • Packaging Coatings
  • Pigments & Dispersants
  • Powder Coatings
  • Protective and Infrastructure Coatings
  • Radiation-cured Coatings
  • Reformulating to address Health, Safety and Environmental Concerns
  • Renewable/Bio-based Coatings
  • Waterborne Coatings
  • Weathering, Corrosion Control, Durability and Service-Life Prediction
  • Wood Coatings

Abstract submission guidelines and additional pertinent information, including other key deadlines, may be found at https://paint.swoogo.com/aca_am_ct27/cfs/12643575.

The American Coatings Association (ACA) is a voluntary, nonprofit trade association working to advance the needs of the paint and coatings industry and the professionals who work in it, including: manufacturers, raw materials suppliers, distributors, and technical professionals. ACA serves as an advocate and ally for members on legislative, regulatory and judicial issues, and provides forums for the advancement and promotion of the industry and coatings science.