TAPPI, the leading association for the worldwide pulp, paper, tissue, packaging and converting industries, has released its technical program for the Fiberglass Mat Technology Forum 2025, October 27–30, in Raleigh, NC, spotlighting some of the most pressing topics facing the industry today.
From the U.S. EPA’s recent risk evaluation of formaldehyde to the challenges of wet-laid forming efficiency, dryer safety, and an open expert panel discussion with leaders from across the supply chain, the program reflects the issues shaping both current operations and long-term strategy. This is the only event dedicated exclusively to fiberglass mat, and it brings together global experts, researchers, and manufacturers for four days of discussion, learning, and collaboration.
“This program is built around the real challenges our industry is facing, economic uncertainty, regulatory shifts, and the constant need to optimize processes and safety,” said Pete Wallace, moderator of the Expert Panel. “Bringing together this caliber of speakers ensures attendees will walk away with information they can immediately apply.”
The program opens with a forward-looking keynote on North America’s Macroeconomic and Housing Outlook by Brendan Lowney, Principal at Forest Economic Advisors. Lowney, one of the leading macroeconomists in the building products sector, will outline the forces driving construction and housing markets that directly influence fiberglass mat demand.
Several sessions turn a technical lens on production processes. Duane Wilson of Owens Corning will present Introduction to Wet Use Chopped Strand (WUCS), a session designed for professionals newer to the industry, focusing on sizing technology and its role in wet-formed mat performance. Kyle Neal of Kadant Solutions will lead Forming and Water Removal Strategies, discussing methods for improving sheet structure and uniformity while reducing water, energy, and chemistry usage.
Safety also plays a central role in this year’s lineup. Angela Krueger, President of ASI – Division of Thermal Technologies, Inc., will lead Hot Air…What Is It Good For? on dryer fundamentals and safety interlocks, supported by a case study illustrating common mistakes to avoid in drying systems.
One of the most anticipated sessions is the Expert Panel in Fiberglass Mat Manufacturing, moderated by Pete Wallace. Wallace, a long-standing technical authority in the field, will guide a discussion with experts from Bakelite, BASF, Certain Teed, Johns Manville, Malarkey, Owens Corning, Voith, and Allimand Interweb. The panel is designed as a live Q&A, giving attendees the opportunity to ask questions, anonymously if desired, and receive insights from some of the most experienced minds in fiberglass mat manufacturing.
Another critical session comes at a pivotal time: An Update on EPA’s Risk Evaluation for Formaldehyde. In December 2024, the EPA released its final evaluation under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), identifying unreasonable risks of injury to human health under certain conditions of use. The evaluation has significant implications for manufacturers, processors, and downstream users of formaldehyde and formaldehyde-containing products.
Sahar Osman-Sypher, Senior Director at the American Chemistry Council, will break down the findings, explain the regulatory considerations behind them, and discuss next steps in the agency’s risk management process. For stakeholders across the fiberglass mat value chain, this session is expected to provide clarity on a complex and far-reaching issue.
In addition to technical content, the forum offers attendees opportunities to expand their perspective through exclusive tours at NC State University. Participants will visit the Nonwovens Institute (NWI), the first accredited academic program dedicated to nonwovens, and NC State’s Paper Science and Engineering Program, which remains a cornerstone of industry research and training. Networking is built into the program with daily breakfasts, breaks, and receptions that allow for peer-to-peer exchange and collaboration.
