An adhesion technology with a solid record, Hot Melts are a versatile and “green” product. They have a lot to offer and a sound understanding of them can put adhesive and sealant companies and professionals on the road to success. The Adhesive and Sealant Council, Inc. (ASC) is offering a Technical Short Course on Hot Melts from October 12-13 in conjunction with the 2008 Fall Convention and Expo at the Baltimore Marriot Waterfront.

The course has presentations from industry experts including David Nick of DPNA International, Inc., Dr. David Dillard of Virginia Tech and William Arendt of Velsicol Chemical Corporation. A tentative presentation schedule, which follows, has been set:

Sunday, October 12

- Introduction to Hot Melt Markets
- Plasticizers
- Rosin Ester and Terpene Tackifiers
- Styrenic Block Co-Polymers
- Hydrocarbon Tackifiers
- Waxes
- Antioxidants
- Testing and Measurement of Hot Melts

Monday, October 13

- Overview of the Raw Materials Market for Hot Melts
- Introduction to Hot Melts
- Packaging and Paper Converting Adhesives
- Non-Woven Adhesives
- PSA Labels and Tapes
- Assembly
- Overview of Hot Melt Application Equipment
- Reactive Polyurethane Hot Melts

Hot Melt attendees also have a special invitation to attend the ASC 2008 Fall Expo on Monday, October 13 at 4:00pm. During the Expo, they can put their new understanding of Hot Melts to use by perusing the various companies that supply the chemical components of the technology.

The latest details and registration information on the 2008 ASC Hot Melt Short Course is available at www.ascouncil.org. Interested attendees are encouraged to check back frequently for updates as the speaker and presentation schedule are finalized.

The Adhesive and Sealant Council (ASC) is a North American trade association dedicated to representing the adhesive and sealant industry. Incorporated in 1958, ASC is bound by the collective efforts of its members, and strives to improve the industry operating environment and strengthen its member companies. Today, ASC members account for more than 75% of the aggregate industry revenues, exceeding some $6 billion annually. The Council is comprised of 130 adhesive and sealant manufacturers, raw material and equipment suppliers and industry consultants. For more information about ASC, visit www.ascouncil.org.