PolyTrib 2026
The 6th International Conference on Polymer Tribology, PolyTrib 2026, will be held in Lund, Sweden, on November 23rd and 24th, 2026.
This year's edition is organised in collaboration with the MAX IV Laboratory, a world-leading, next-generation synchrotron radiation research facility, and LINXS (Institute of Advanced Neutron and X-ray Science).
The PolyTrib conference series represents a unique occasion for scientists from academia and industrial experts to meet and discuss the latest scientific and R&D advancements on topics related to polymer tribology. The most recent event in Portorož, Slovenia, brought together professionals from 16 countries worldwide, with almost half of them from industry.
The objective of PolyTrib 2026 is to facilitate in-depth discussions on topics related to polymer tribology, including polymer processing and manufacturing, applications, modeling, machine learning, user aspects and more. Our aim is to deliver a rich program with of podium talks, technical presentations, poster sessions, exhibitions, and networking opportunities to create a stimulating conference that is furthermore an ideal space to establish and strengthen collaborations between the different academic and industrial institutions and partners.
PolyTrib offers opportunities for participants to discuss current and urgent topics, including PFAS-free solid lubricants, 2D-based materials, polymeric components for environmentally friendly energy production, developments in hydrogen infrastructure, and the electrification of mobility. Moreover, sustainability in polymer-based materials, recycling strategies, and the circular economy of tribological components made from polymer materials are subjects of interest. Other topics include bio-based polymer composites, non-conventional manufacturing techniques (e.g. 3D printing) and biotribology.
As we reflect on the learnings and insights gained at PolyTrib 2024, we look forward to continuing our journey within this vibrant community and applying this knowledge to advance the field of polymer tribology.
An additional, exciting opportunity is available to a limited number of conference participants: A guided tour through the facilities of the MAX IV synchrotron laboratory on the 25th November.
Warm welcome to PolyTrib 2026 in Sweden!
Nazanin Emami and Mitjan Kalin
Conference chairs
Conference Sponsors and Partners
www.surfaceventures.org
Venue & Accommodation
Accommodation information and booking links now available! The conference will be held at The Loop, Lund.
MAX IV Synchrotron Lab
Information on the Swedish national synchrotron laboratory MAX IV
Past PolyTrib conferences
Earlier iterations of the PolyTrib conference series.
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