Sustainability

Sustainability has become a mainstay in nearly every industry, including adhesives and sealants.

Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword in manufacturing—it has become a mainstay in nearly every industry, including adhesives and sealants. In addition to reduced emissions and landfill waste, “green” products also reduce the chance of exposing workers to dangerous toxins. Omnova recently developed a line of water-based release coatings that can provide a range of performance properties. Find out more on p. 16.

Finding a use for a byproduct that would otherwise end up in the landfill is a key component of “green.” Cardolite has found a new use for cashew nutshells, which are considered a byproduct of the cashew industry and typically disposed of. Turn to “A Natural Choice” on p. 20 to learn more.

Energy usage is also a big part of sustainability. On p. 26, we explore how Chemique Adhesives added a 30-kW solar installation on the roof of its North American headquarters in Kennesaw, Ga., as part of its corporate commitment to sustainability. Designed and built by Atlanta-based Velo Solar, the installation is expected to reduce the company’s CO₂ emissions by 30.6 tons annually, the equivalent of planting 784 trees.

Compared to solvent-based coating, 100% solids coating can reduce energy requirements by up to 95%. “This coating technique produces superior quality and eco-friendly adhesive products, while enabling process operations that are fast and low energy, bringing enhanced value to the industrial tapes and adhesives supply chain,” write the authors of “The Greener Side of Adhesive Coating,” which begins on p. 36.

How is your company embracing sustainability? Whether it’s creating a recycling program or renovating to implement green building practices, we want to hear about it. Send an email to mcphersont@bnpmedia.com to let me know your company could be highlighted in a future issue of ASI! ASI

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Teresa McPherson was the former Editor of Adhesives & Sealants Industry. She has held several editorial positions during her more than 20 years with BNP Media. She holds a bachelor’s degree in English and journalism from Eastern Michigan University.