SPE International Polyolefins Conference - IPOC 2027
Event Date
February 8–11, 2027
Location
Galveston, TX
Expected Exhibitors
60
About This Show
AI-drafted summaryThe SPE International Polyolefins Conference (IPOC) is widely regarded as the preeminent polyolefins conference in the United States and one of the largest of its kind in the world. Organized by the Society of Plastics Engineers (SPE) South Texas Section in collaboration with several SPE technical divisions, it has been dedicated to the polyolefins industry since 1975, held annually at the Galveston Island Convention Center on the Texas Gulf Coast.
The conference draws hundreds of industry professionals from around the globe, including producers, suppliers, processors, marketers, application developers, regulators, and thought leaders. Its comprehensive technical program spans the full breadth of polyolefins science and technology, from fundamental catalysis to the sustainable disposal and reuse of the materials the industry produces.
Attendees benefit from cutting-edge technical presentations, plenary keynote sessions, an exhibition hall of industry suppliers, student poster competitions, networking socials, and tutorials for those new to the field. The event is offered both in person and virtually, and both in-person and online participants gain access to a mobile or web app to view speaker presentations for up to six months after the conference — making it an essential gathering for anyone connected to the polyolefins value chain.
Show Highlights
Signature features of the IPOC program include:
- Plenary keynote sessions each morning, Tuesday through Thursday, opening the day's program.
- 130+ technical papers covering topics from fundamental catalysis to sustainability, recycling, and reuse of polyolefin materials.
- Exhibition hall featuring 60+ companies spanning equipment, compounding, additives, and more, with an improved floor layout for easy access and flow.
- Tutorials that begin the program on Monday afternoon, ideal for those seeking foundational grounding.
- Student Poster Competition showcasing emerging research talent.
- Networking socials and coffee breaks held on the exhibition floor throughout the event.
- End-of-conference raffles in the exhibit hall on the final day.
- Hybrid access, with in-person and virtual participation and six months of on-demand access to presentations via the conference app.
Attendance
The IPOC historically attracts over 800 people to attend in person, and with the addition of virtual attendees, total attendance is expected to easily exceed 1,000. Organizers anticipate in excess of 900 people from around the globe participating either in person or virtually at the 2027 edition. The 2025 conference, which marked the event's 50th year, drew over 880 attendees, including industry leaders, researchers, and students. The audience is international and spans producers, suppliers, processors, marketers, application developers, regulators, and academic researchers.
Registration
Registration is handled through the SPE South Texas Section website at spe-stx.org. Several badge and pass types are available:
- Full conference badges provide access to technical papers, social and networking functions, and lunches.
- Exhibit Hall Only badges allow entry to the exhibition hall but do not include access to social/networking functions, papers, or lunches; attendees wanting those benefits should purchase a badge appropriate to their needs.
The conference is available for both in-person and virtual (online) participation, and all registrants receive access to the mobile or web app to view speaker presentations for six months after the event. On-site registration is located by the doors leading to the exhibition hall. Prospective attendees can join the SPE South Texas Section mailing list to stay informed about registration and program updates.
History
The SPE International Polyolefins Conference has been the leading polyolefins conference since its very beginning in 1975, as cited by exhibitors, sponsors, and attendees alike. Over more than five decades it has grown into what is billed as the largest polymer conference in the world dedicated to polyolefin applications, markets, and technology. The 2025 edition celebrated the conference's 50th year. In recent years the event has expanded its format — adding hybrid virtual access and, beginning in 2026, shifting to a Monday–Thursday schedule — while consistently drawing 800+ in-person attendees, 130+ technical papers, and 60+ exhibiting companies to Galveston Island each February.
Exhibitors
Exhibitor Information
Detailed exhibitor list is being compiled. Check back soon or visit the official show website for the most current information.
Last updated: August 14, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where is the 2027 SPE International Polyolefins Conference held?
The 2027 IPOC takes place February 8-11, 2027, at the Galveston Island Convention Center at The San Luis Resort on Seawall Boulevard in Galveston, Texas.
Who should attend the IPOC?
The conference draws polyolefins industry professionals from around the globe, including producers, suppliers, processors, marketers, application developers, regulators, thought leaders, academic researchers, and students.
What does the conference program include?
The program features morning plenary keynote sessions, 130+ technical papers covering everything from catalysis to sustainability and recycling, an exhibition hall of 60+ companies, tutorials, a student poster competition, and networking socials. Both in-person and virtual attendees can access speaker presentations via a mobile or web app for six months afterward.
How do I register for the conference?
Registration is available through the SPE South Texas Section website at spe-stx.org. Full conference badges include access to papers, networking functions, and lunches, while Exhibit Hall Only badges provide access to the exhibition hall only. Both in-person and virtual participation options are offered.
What is the nearest airport and how do I get to the venue?
William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) in Houston is the closest major airport, about 40 miles (roughly 50 minutes) from Galveston, while George Bush Intercontinental (IAH) is about 70 miles away. Rideshare, shuttles, limousines, and rental cars are available, and a complimentary shuttle runs between the San Luis Resort and the convention center.
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