ASETSDefense ‘09 will cover all ESOH coating issues in new and legacy aircraft, vehicles, and ships. It will focus on hexavalent chromium to assist DoD organizations with meeting the requirements of the memo issued by the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology and Logistics on April 8, 2009, titled "Minimizing the Use of Hexavalent Chromium (Cr⁶⁺)." This memo requires reducing DoD usage of Cr⁶⁺ processes and materials, while ensuring performance and cost-effectiveness. The memo points to SERDP and the ASETSDefense database for knowledge on research development test and evaluation (RDT&E) efforts and experience with implementation of alternatives.

The workshop will feature briefings and discussions on alternatives to Cr6+ processes, Cd plating, and high VOC coatings. Topics will encompass the following:

• Issues and solutions for Cr⁶⁺ minimization
• Chromate reduction and elimination in coating stackups, including conversion coatings, primers, etc.
• Reduction and elimination of hard chrome plating, chromate processes, and Cd plating from components common to all weapons systems, such as hydraulics, fasteners, and connectors
• Chromate- and Cd-free methods of overhauling and rebuilding worn and corroded legacy components, such as Mg gearboxes, turbine engines, actuators, and shafts from aircraft, vehicles, and ships
• Alternatives to hard chrome plating for rebuild and wear protection of internal and external surfaces
• Alternatives to cadmium plating and chromate sealing of Cd, Zn, ZnNi, Al, and other corrosion coatings
• Alternatives to chromate anodizing and sealing of anodized surfaces
• Alternatives to chromate wash primers, bond primers, etc.
• Low VOC topcoats

Anyone interested in providing a briefing related to advanced development, demonstration, validation, or implementation of alternative technologies that fit under any of the above topics should contact Hillary Legg at asets2009@rowantechnology.com. Selection of presentations will be made by a technical committee based on applicability to the aims of the workshop.

There will also be a limited number of tables available at the workshop venue to accommodate displays from commercial firms, DoD organizations, and other organizations working in this field. There is no charge for a display, but advance registration is required by contacting Hillary Legg at the above e-mail address.

Workshop Registration is now open, and a block of rooms at the Westin Westminster has been set aside at a special rate for workshop participants. To make your hotel reservation, click here.