As we headed in to 2020, merger and acquisition (M&A) activity in chemicals and materials was humming along at near-historical levels. High valuations did not seem to deter buyers, with private equity (PE) firms clamoring to place capital and strategic buyers motivated for acquisitions to bolster their growth and help justify their high stock prices.
Adhesives play an important role in creating sustainable and resilient infrastructure. While the hybridization of adhesives is not a novel concept, recent innovations in raw materials have unlocked new possibilities for toughened epoxy systems.
We have some pinhole leaks in our fire sprinkler system in a large residential apartment block. Can you recommend a sealant that will stop the leaks to give us some time before we have to replace the entire system?
Fire sprinkler systems are very difficult and expensive to replace or repair because the piping is often inside walls and ceilings. Some companies sell two-part epoxy adhesives that are fast curing and designed specifically for repairing this type of leak.
Advanced sealants and adhesives in vehicle assembly effectively and safely address key applications that have traditionally employed mechanical fasteners while adding design freedom to today's modern vehicles.
Transportation has evolved tremendously over the last century. From horse and buggy to steam power, the internal combustion engine, multi-speed powertrains, and the latest push for hybrids and electrification—the way things move has changed tremendously.
According to the National Pest Management Association, 37% of homeowners have seen a rodent in their home in the past year. As we mark Pest & Rodent Awareness Week in October, it’s important to take a proactive approach to deter these critters before they find a way into a building.
When Kermit the Frog (voiced by Jim Henson) first sang “Bein’ Green” in 1970, few consumers were concerned about climate change. Most manufacturers didn’t focus on sustainability or tout their products’ “green” qualities (if they happened to have any). Oh, how times have changed.
Sustainability and recyclability continue to be critical for adhesives in packaging applications, as does the need to continually improve efficiency and reduce cost.
As the corrugating industry’s workhorse, adhesives are diverse and cover a wide range of chemistries, forms, applications, and necessities. Packaging itself varies from heat-sealed polymers to plastics, foils, and paperboard.
Adhesives and sealants have a long history in shipbuilding and marine industries, providing protection against water, chemicals, weather, and environmental degradation. In the earliest days of seafaring, natural sealants such as pine resins were cooked down and applied liberally, requiring regular re-treatments.
Ink, adhesive, paperboard, film, and other material suppliers need to understand relevant certifications and processes in order to adhere to recycling or composting standards.
Consumer sentiment continues to drive sustainability throughout the economy and society. Consumers often view packaging as wasteful, and they demand more sustainable options as a result. Many terms, such as reuse, recycle, compost, and reduction, resonate positively with consumers.