Seizing the benefits of modern digital coating technologies
Overspray-free lacquer application methods can deliver multiple benefits for coatings formulators and equipment manufacturers – but only with the right materials and application knowledge. Fabian Schuster explains how partnership can unlock this knowledge and accelerate digital coatings innovation.
Fabian Schuster, Head of Laboratory – Modern Coating and Adhesive Technologies, Covestro
May 26, 2026
How collaboration can unlock the next phase of industrial-scale digital coating
Overspray-free lacquer application methods – also known as digital coating – can help manufacturers to comply with environmental and safety regulations, meet ever-stricter sustainability targets, and offset rising energy costs. But unlocking these benefits requires the right raw materials, coatings expertise, and application know-how. Digital coatings expert Fabian Schuster explains how collaboration and tailored application testing can accelerate digital coatings innovation across the value chain.
Where can I learn more?
I want to learn how to accelerate my digital coating innovation.
In this interview, we ask Fabian the following questions:
•What market demands are driving developments in digital coating right now?
•How does Covestro use the Digital Coatings Innovation Lab to combine technologies with material expertise?
•What types of collaboration can harness the potential of digital coating innovations?
Download the interview to learn how you could seize the advantages of next-generation digital coating technologies.
Key takeaways
Market demands drive maturation
Market demands drive maturation
Digital coating’s maturation is being driven by strict regulations, ambitious sustainability targets, and high energy costs. The technology’s process efficiency, lower energy consumption, and flexibility help manufacturers address these needs.
Material and method must work together
Material and method must work together
Each digital application method comes with strict jetting requirements, and therefore restrictions for the raw materials’ properties. We help customers test various combinations of raw material formulations and application methods to ensure success.
Collaboration will drive wider adoption
Collaboration will drive wider adoption
Coatings formulators and equipment manufacturers have an opportunity to lead the next phase of industrial-scale digital coating adoption. Collaboration will be key for this, due to the combination of coatings expertise and application know-how required.
“Our customers have a unique opportunity to lead the next phase of digital coating adoption, but we’ll need to act fast. Whether it’s for the automotive, industrial, transportation, or architectural market, we’re actively looking for partners to make this industrial-scale adoption happen.”
Fabian Schuster
Head of Laboratory – Modern Coating and Adhesive Technologies, Covestro
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