Pressure-sensitive adhesives (PSAs) are crucial components in a variety of industries, including packaging, automotive, construction, and electronics. However, the manufacturing process of PSAs poses several environmental challenges, such as the use of solvents, energy consumption, and waste generation. As the demand for environmentally friendly products rises, manufacturers are evaluating their current sustainability practices and finding ways to minimize their environmental impact. This article explores various sustainability practices in PSA manufacturing, highlighting key strategies, benefits, challenges, and future trends.

Henkel and Covestro have embarked on a collaborative effort to advance the sustainability of adhesives within timber construction. Covestro, known for its polyurethane-based materials derived from bio-attributed raw resources, partners with Henkel to leverage these materials for crafting high-performance adhesive solutions.

Allied Market Research (AMR) anticipates that the global aerospace adhesives market size was valued at $0.9 billion in 2022, and is projected to reach $1.5 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 5% from 2023 to 2032.

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.

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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