Happy New Year, everyone! For many companies in the adhesives and sealants industry, 2014 was a year of renewed optimism. Financial results are trending toward the positive, and many market reports are highlighting opportunities for further growth opportunities. Overall, business seems to have improved following the recession; in fact, many companies haven’t been this busy in years.

Looking into 2015, we’re excited by the myriad technological innovations that we’re seeing in the adhesives and sealants industry. For example, the disposable hygiene industry is seeing a trend toward thinner cores, providing opportunities (as well as challenges) for adhesive technologies. “As fluff pulp is reduced, the task of holding the core together and in place rests largely with the adhesive,” writes Bostik’s Diane Toonen. Learn more in “Disposable Hygiene: One Core Adhesive Does Not Fit All.”

Additional articles in this issue focus on solvent acrylic PSAs, safety issues involving the application of spray polyurethane foams, planetary mixers, the packaging of adhesives and sealants, and more. Be sure to check out the full Table of Contents.

We at ASI are embracing optimism by shaking off the old and introducing a brand new modern design for 2015! It is our hope that the bright, open layouts and attractive photos will make your reading experience even more beneficial and enjoyable. I’d like to give a special thanks to Lindsay Leusby, our art director, whose amazing creativity is evident throughout this issue and those to come.

I’d love to hear your thoughts on the redesign, as well as any suggestions for our coverage in 2015. Please don’t hesitate to contact me at (248) 786-1704 or suttons@bnpmedia.com. As always, thank you for being part of our ASI family—and here’s to a great 2015!

 Join the ASI community at www.adhesivesmag.com/connect.