SÜDPACK and LEIBINGER have tested the suitability of continuous inkjet (CIJ) inks for printing on recyclable films for foods sterilized after being packaged, with a combined packaging and printing solution expected to save food manufacturers time and ensure investment security.

In August 2024, the Indian Styrene Copolymer market underwent a significant price decline, reducing by 1.3% compared to July. The reduced pricing can be primarily attributed to a temporary contraction in demand across key sectors such as automotive and electronics, which are significant consumers of Styrene Copolymer. Additionally, seasonal factors contributed to a decline in downstream manufacturing activities, further reducing the demand.

Benzene prices in the North American market have started September on a bearish note, reflecting broader market instabilities. This decline comes as several key factors converge, impacting the overall price momentum of Benzene. Among these factors are production costs, demand volumes, and the supply chain dynamics within both domestic and international markets. Major consumers of Benzene, which is inclusive of styrene monomer, phenol, cumene and more had continued to showcase lacklustre demand outlook in the domestic market as well. As naphtha, an essential feedstock for Benzene production undergoes price fluctuations, these changes have a direct impact on Benzene pricing trends.

In August 2024, the U.S. Styrene market experienced substantial price variations, indicating ongoing supply-demand imbalances and broader market dynamics. As of mid-August, the price of Styrene on FOB - Texas basis stood at USD 1,270 per metric ton, exhibiting a decrease of about 2.2% compared to the previous week. This decline followed a sharp increase of 8.17% in the first week of August, highlighting the uncertain conditions that have shaped Styrene pricing throughout the month.

Henkel Adhesives Technologies India Private Limited (Henkel India) has successfully completed Phase III of its manufacturing facility in Kurkumbh, near Pune, Maharashtra. Established in 2020, the Kurkumbh site addresses the rising demand in Indian industries for advanced adhesive, sealant, and surface treatment solutions. The newly inaugurated Loctite plant, named after Henkel's renowned brand, was officially opened by Mark Dorn, Executive Vice President of Henkel Adhesive Technologies, along with other senior management members.

Across the European market, Butadiene prices have turned bullish in the third week of July. Limited availability amid speculated supply cuts by major producers has been mainly blamed for the recent firmness, although there are few shutdowns or reduced rates confirmed by the regional producer. Furthermore, firmer feedstock values have further exerted upward pressure on the prices of Butadiene. However, demand for Butadiene from the downstream derivative industry continues to remain weak owing to a seasonal lull.

In July 2024, Styrene prices in the United Kingdom experienced a substantial monthly increase, closing at USD 1,330 per metric ton on CFR – Southampton basis on July 26th. This 5% rise in prices indicates the ongoing market variations, as the month began with Styrene valued at USD 1,250 per metric ton, increasing to USD 1,355 by mid-July, before a slight adjustment downward at the end of the month. Despite this volatility, the overall trend directs to a market that is responding to various economic and supply-demand factors.

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Elastomers have been the go-to material of choice for savvy design engineers and product managers who want an unbeatable combination of flexibility and durability in their products. In 2023, new trends in thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) technology and the market present more opportunities than ever before. This year’s top trends include responsible sustainable application development, customizable look and feel, retail re-emergence, reshoring, and creatively reducing cost through material substitution. Let's take a look at these trends in more detail.

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The global tile adhesives and stone adhesives market size was USD 4410 million in 2022 and will reach USD 7655.5 million by 2029, witnessing a CAGR of 8.2% during the forecast period.

Non-Woven Adhesive Market is forecast to reach $2.3 billion by 2026, after growing at a CAGR of 8.1% during the forecast period 2021-2026. The market for non-woven hygiene adhesives is witnessing high growth due to rising demand from emerging applications such as baby care, feminine hygiene, and adult incontinence. Advancement in medical procedures and healthcare-related practices is expected to drive the market for non-woven adhesives in the next few years. Rise in ageing population is also anticipated to be a major factor driving the inclusion of non-woven adhesives in various adult care products such as adult diapers. With increasing awareness related to the use of safe and hygienic products, the market for non-woven adhesives is estimated to expand further during the forecast period.  However, the end-use industries are being significantly affected due to the COVID-19 pandemic, as most of the countries have issued “stay at home guidance” i.e., lockdown. This factor is limiting the market growth in current situation.