Though bioinspired approaches to adhesive R&D often lead to great improvements in the lab, translating these sophisticated chemistries to commercial scale is a considerable challenge.
With the host of diverse biomaterials produced by an estimated 6.5 million species on land and 2.2 million species in the oceans, the biomimicry toolkit that man has to play with is, for all practical purposes, limitless. The superior designs discovered in nature have inspired many research programs from around the world, both at the university and commercial levels. The gecko, sandcastle worm, caddisfly, mussel, and sea cucumber are all species that have inspired new chemical approaches to creating adhesives with unique performance features.
Though the events of the past two years have posed significant potential roadblocks to research and development efforts, companies in the adhesives and sealants industry are still focused on innovation.
As we’ve all seen, the events of the past two years have posed significant potential roadblocks to research and development efforts. How are companies evaluating the multiple issues involved, exploring potential solutions, and pivoting to ensure their companies remain focused on innovation in these challenging times?
Construction adhesives are a growing business, and for good reason. They can be used in almost any construction project, big or small, and they strengthen and improve the longevity of common projects like installing subflooring, hanging drywall, finishing trim and moldings, and hanging cabinets, as well as outdoor landscaping and finishing projects.
Sika recently announced that it has opened a new plant in Santa Cruz de la Sierra, thus doubling its production capacity for mortar and concrete admixtures in Bolivia.
After two postponements due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2022 World Adhesive and Sealant Conference (WAC 2022) was held in April. More than 1,250 industry professionals from 26 countries had the opportunity to come together in Chicago, make meaningful connections, and build opportunities for long-term growth.