Presenters Name: Daniel Palm

Employment Title: Business & Technical Development Manager

Company: Polymers Pty Ltd

Biography:  Daniel Palm is an accomplished business and technical leader with extensive experience in polymers, biocides, and innovation within the building, construction, and chemical industries. Over the course of his career, Daniel has excelled in roles that combine strategic business development with cutting-edge technical expertise to deliver impactful solutions.  Currently serving as the Business & Technical Development Manager at Polymers Pty Ltd, Daniel leads initiatives that drive growth, market expansion, and innovation in the building and construction industry. Prior to his current role, Daniel held positions at Arxada, including Technical Manager and Oceania Technical Services Lead, where he focused on supporting customers through technical expertise and innovative solutions in microbial control, biosecurity, and more. At Lonza, he served as R&D Technical Services & Development Manager and R&D Lead – Oceania, specialising in biocides and technical advancements for diverse applications. Daniel also spent over eight years at Dow as a Customer Application Specialist, where he honed his skills in biocides and applications for the coatings, adhesives and sealants market along with other applications. With a wealth of knowledge in microbiology, biocidal applications, and customer-focused innovation, Daniel consistently bridges the gap between technical advancements and market needs. His expertise and leadership continue to make a significant impact in shaping sustainable and high-performance solutions across industries.

Presentation Title:  The Biocide Balancing Act: Innovating in a Changing Landscape

Presentation Abstract: The paint and coatings industry is facing on-going challenges as regulations around biocides become stricter, focusing on health and environmental concerns. Biocides play a key role in protecting paints from microbial damage, but tighter rules, such as the EU’s Biocidal Products Regulation (BPR), are pushing manufacturers to rethink their approach.

This presentation, “The Biocide Balancing Act: Innovating in a The paint and coatings industry is facing on-going challenges as regulations around biocides become stricter, focusing on health and environmental concerns. Biocides play a key role in protecting paints from microbial damage, but tighter rules, such as the EU’s Biocidal Products Regulation (BPR), are pushing manufacturers to rethink their approach.

This presentation, “The Biocide Balancing Act: Innovating in a Changing Landscape,” explores how these regulatory changes are driving innovation in research and development (R&D). We will discuss how companies are adapting by developing alternative chemistries, improving encapsulation technologies, and creating more sustainable antimicrobial coatings.

Attendees will gain a clear understanding of the current regulatory landscape, the challenges it presents, and practical strategies for staying compliant while maintaining product performance. The session will offer insights for professionals across the industry and provide a glimpse into how innovation can help overcome these challenges and shape the future of paints and coatings.