Automakers are investing heavily in electric vehicle (EV) technology and are setting long-term goals for phasing out internal combustion engines. This strategic shift is driven by government policy, long-term competitiveness, and innovations in lithium-ion technology and production that have extended the EV driving range and reduced battery pack costs.

I recently reached out to key industry players—ranging from raw materials suppliers to manufacturers of finished adhesives and sealants—to get their takes on factors ranging from supply chain volatility and sustainability initiatives to research and development efforts.

The ideal pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) delivers exactly the right amount of bonding at the lowest cost. Choosing the right adhesive hasn’t always been easy, however. We have all heard stories about adhesives failing prematurely, as well as how costly those failures can be to product manufacturers.

It shouldn’t surprise anyone that the adhesive requirements for labels in the medical and pharmaceutical industry are diverse and demanding. With applications ranging from over-the-counter medications and nutraceuticals to blood bags and syringes, the process of matching adhesive to end use in this highly regulated industry is more involved than in almost any other segment.