Solventless Laminating Adhesive Market - Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, 2018-2028

Solventless Laminating Adhesive Market - Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, 2018-2028

Global Solventless Laminating Adhesive Market has valued at USD 488.75 million in 2022 and is anticipated to project robust growth in the forecast period with a CAGR of 4.18% through 2028.

Solventless laminating adhesives have gained significant prominence in various industries due to their eco-friendly nature, versatility, and exceptional bonding properties. Solventless laminating adhesives represent a vital segment of the adhesive industry, finding extensive use in packaging, automotive, aerospace, and flexible electronics, among other sectors. Unlike solvent-based adhesives, solventless laminating adhesives do not contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), making them environmentally friendly and compliant with stringent regulatory standards. This characteristic, along with their exceptional bonding strength, has fueled their adoption across various applications.

Growing environmental concerns and strict regulations related to VOC emissions have led industries to shift towards eco-friendly adhesive solutions. Solventless laminating adhesives, being solvent-free, align perfectly with sustainability goals. The packaging industry is a major driver of the solventless laminating adhesive market. As consumer preferences evolve, there is a demand for innovative and sustainable packaging materials, driving the adoption of solventless adhesives in flexible packaging and labels.

With stringent food safety requirements, the food and beverage industry rely on safe and non-toxic materials. Solventless laminating adhesives are considered a safer choice for food packaging due to their absence of harmful emissions. The expanding market for flexible electronics, including wearable devices and flexible displays, has created opportunities for solventless laminating adhesives. These adhesives enable the assembly of thin, lightweight electronic components without compromising performance. In the automotive sector, where weight reduction is a key focus for improved fuel efficiency, solventless laminating adhesives play a crucial role in bonding lightweight materials and composites.

Manufacturers are investing in research and development to enhance the performance of solventless laminating adhesives, making them suitable for even more demanding applications. This includes improving curing processes, adhesion to diverse substrates, and heat resistance. Industries increasingly seek tailor-made adhesive solutions to meet specific requirements. Customized solventless laminating adhesives are gaining popularity, ensuring compatibility with unique substrates and performance criteria.

The rise of digital printing in packaging has driven the need for solventless adhesives compatible with digital printing processes, ensuring high-quality graphics and labels. The booming e-commerce industry demands robust packaging solutions. Solventless laminating adhesives are favored for their ability to provide durable and secure packaging for shipped products.

The equipment required for solventless lamination can be expensive, posing a challenge for smaller manufacturers looking to enter the market. The application process of solventless laminating adhesives requires precision and expertise, potentially limiting adoption in industries with less experienced operators.

The global solventless laminating adhesive market continues to grow, driven by the imperative for environmentally sustainable solutions, advances in packaging technology, and the evolving needs of various industries. As adhesive manufacturers continue to innovate and adapt to market demands, solventless laminating adhesives are poised to play an increasingly pivotal role in a wide range of applications, contributing to eco-friendly and high-performance bonding solutions. Researchers, manufacturers, and industry stakeholders should closely monitor this market's developments and opportunities as it continues to expand and diversify.

Key Market Drivers

Growing demand for flexible packaging is major factor for Solventless Laminating Adhesive Market Growth

Flexible packaging has become increasingly popular across a wide range of industries due to its versatility, sustainability, and consumer appeal. As a result, the global solventless laminating adhesive market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the surging demand for flexible packaging solutions.

Flexible packaging, characterized by materials such as films, pouches, and bags, offers several advantages over traditional rigid packaging. It is lightweight, cost-effective, and customizable, making it an attractive choice for both manufacturers and consumers. Flexible packaging also extends product shelf life, reduces waste, and enhances convenience, factors that resonate with today's environmentally conscious consumers.

Consumers are increasingly gravitating towards products that are easy to use, portable, and environmentally friendly. Flexible packaging meets these criteria, aligning with changing consumer preferences. The food and beverage industry is a major driver for flexible packaging. With consumers seeking convenient, on-the-go options and a desire for extended product freshness, manufacturers are turning to flexible packaging to meet these demands.

The surge in e-commerce activities has created a need for packaging that can protect products during transit while also offering an engaging unboxing experience. Flexible packaging's adaptability makes it an ideal choice for e-commerce shipments. Increasing environmental awareness has led to a shift away from single-use plastics and non-recyclable materials. Flexible packaging materials, when combined with solventless laminating adhesives, offer sustainable and recyclable solutions.

Solventless laminating adhesives are integral to the flexible packaging industry. They provide the bonding strength required to create multi-layered structures that protect and preserve the contents.

Solventless laminating adhesives are free of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), contributing to sustainable and eco-friendly packaging solutions. They offer exceptional bonding properties, ensuring that the various layers of flexible packaging materials adhere securely to each other.

Solventless laminating adhesives can be formulated to provide barrier properties that protect contents from moisture, oxygen, and other external factors. These adhesives are versatile and can be used with a variety of flexible packaging materials, including films, foils, and paper.

The global solventless laminating adhesive market is witnessing robust growth due to the expanding adoption of flexible packaging across industries. Rapid urbanization and changing lifestyles in emerging markets, particularly in Asia-Pacific and Latin America, are driving increased consumption of packaged goods, boosting the demand for flexible packaging. Manufacturers of solventless laminating adhesives are continually innovating to develop formulations that meet evolving industry requirements, such as enhanced heat resistance and faster curing times.

Stringent environmental regulations and a growing emphasis on sustainable packaging solutions are favoring the use of solventless laminating adhesives, which align with these requirements. Industries are increasingly seeking customized packaging solutions to differentiate their products in the market. Solventless laminating adhesives offer the flexibility needed to create unique packaging designs.

Therefore, the global solventless laminating adhesive market is inextricably linked to the growing demand for flexible packaging. As consumer preferences evolve, industries seek sustainable and convenient packaging options, which flexible packaging, enabled by solventless laminating adhesives, can provide. This trend is expected to continue, fostering market growth and encouraging further innovation in adhesive technology to meet the diverse needs of various industries.

Increasing Use of Solventless Laminating Adhesive in the Electrical & Electronics Industry Drives the Demand for Solventless Laminating Adhesive

High-temperature sealants are engineered to deliver exceptional performance in environments with extreme heat. These specialized sealants offer a durable, weather-resistant seal with superior adhesion, flexibility, and longevity. They exhibit versatility by adhering effectively to a wide range of common building materials, remaining flexible even when exposed to varying temperatures and substrates.

In the electrical and electronics industry, high-temperature sealants find extensive use across various applications. These include printed circuit boards, semiconductor bonding, pyrolytically deposited films, microelectronic substrates, electrical connectors, high-power resistors, and ceramic-filled cartridge heaters. Their adaptability to diverse electronic components and systems underscores their significance in this sector.

India has taken a significant step in advancing its electronics industry with the approval of the National Policy on Electronics 2019. This policy aims to elevate the Electronics System Design and Manufacturing (ESDM) sector in India, targeting a substantial turnover of USD 400 billion in domestic electronics manufacturing by 2025. This strategic initiative is poised to bolster the demand for high-temperature sealants in the country.

Furthermore, global sales of semiconductors, as estimated by WSTS, are projected to experience a substantial increase of approximately 5.4% in 2020. This growth in the semiconductor industry creates a favorable environment for the high-temperature sealant market, particularly in applications related to electronics and semiconductor manufacturing.

Given the expanding applications of high-temperature sealants in the electrical and electronics sector, particularly in regions like Asia-Pacific and North America, there is a strong anticipation of increased demand for these specialized sealants over the forecast period. This growth aligns with the evolving technological landscape and the drive for improved performance and durability in electronic systems.

Increasing demand for sustainable packaging

The global packaging industry is undergoing a transformation driven by evolving consumer preferences, environmental consciousness, and sustainability goals. Within this context, the demand for sustainable packaging solutions is on the rise, and it is serving as a significant driver for the global solventless laminating adhesive market.

Sustainability has become a central theme in consumer choices and corporate strategies. As consumers become more aware of the environmental impact of packaging materials, there is a growing preference for eco-friendly and sustainable packaging options. This shift is prompting industries to seek packaging solutions that reduce waste, carbon footprint, and reliance on non-recyclable materials.

An increasingly informed and environmentally conscious consumer base is driving the demand for packaging that aligns with sustainable practices. Consumers now actively seek products in packaging that is recyclable, biodegradable, and minimizes waste. Governments and regulatory bodies worldwide are introducing stringent measures to reduce plastic waste and promote sustainable packaging solutions. This has led industries to explore alternatives that comply with these regulations. Many companies are adopting sustainability as a core value and a part of their corporate social responsibility. They are committed to reducing the environmental impact of their products, including the packaging they use.

Solventless laminating adhesives play a pivotal role in achieving sustainable packaging solutions.

Solventless laminating adhesives are inherently free of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are harmful to the environment. This aligns with the eco-friendly goals of sustainable packaging. Packaging materials bonded with solventless laminating adhesives can often be easily separated and recycled, contributing to the circular economy and reducing waste. Solventless laminating adhesives can be applied to a variety of eco-friendly packaging materials, such as recycled papers, biodegradable films, and compostable substrates. Sustainable packaging should not compromise durability. Solventless laminating adhesives offer excellent bonding strength, ensuring that the packaging maintains its integrity throughout its lifecycle.

The global solventless laminating adhesive market is experiencing robust growth due to the escalating demand for sustainable packaging. As sustainability becomes a more significant factor in purchasing decisions, industries are compelled to adopt sustainable packaging solutions, driving the demand for solventless laminating adhesives. Adhesive manufacturers are continuously innovating to develop solventless laminating adhesive formulations that meet the specific requirements of sustainable packaging, including composability and biodegradability. The concept of a circular economy, where materials are reused and recycled, is gaining momentum. Solventless laminating adhesives fit seamlessly into this model by facilitating the recycling of packaging materials. International efforts to reduce plastic waste and promote sustainable packaging solutions are further propelling the adoption of solventless laminating adhesives.

Hence, the global solventless laminating adhesive market is inextricably linked to the growing demand for sustainable packaging solutions. As industries strive to meet sustainability goals and consumer expectations, the role of these adhesives in creating eco-friendly packaging becomes increasingly significant. This trend not only fosters market growth but also promotes a more environmentally responsible approach to packaging in industries around the world.

Key Market Challenges

More Expensive than Solvent-Based Laminating Adhesives

The relatively higher cost of solventless laminating adhesives compared to solvent-based alternatives poses a significant obstacle to the growth of the global solventless laminating adhesive market. While solventless adhesives offer numerous advantages such as environmental friendliness, enhanced safety, and improved product quality, their initial cost can deter some manufacturers from adopting them.

Many businesses, especially smaller ones with tight budgets, may find the initial investment in solventless laminating adhesives prohibitive. Additionally, the transition from solvent-based to solventless adhesives may require equipment modifications or upgrades, adding to the overall implementation cost.

However, it's essential to note that the higher upfront cost of solventless adhesives is often offset by long-term benefits such as reduced solvent handling expenses, improved workplace safety, and compliance with environmental regulations. As awareness of these advantages grows and economies of scale come into play, the cost barrier may gradually diminish, promoting further adoption of solventless laminating adhesives in the market.

Lack of Awareness

The lack of awareness regarding the substantial benefits of solventless laminating adhesives among certain users is a significant impediment to the widespread adoption of these advanced adhesive solutions, ultimately hindering the growth of the global solventless laminating adhesive market. In some markets and industries, traditional practices and established preferences for solvent-based adhesives persist, primarily due to a limited understanding of the advantages offered by solventless alternatives.

These benefits include environmental friendliness, reduced exposure to volatile organic compounds (VOCs), enhanced safety for workers, improved product quality, and compliance with stringent regulatory standards. However, without proper education and awareness initiatives, potential users may remain reluctant to explore and invest in solventless laminating adhesives.

Overcoming this awareness gap is crucial for the market's growth. Manufacturers and industry stakeholders should actively engage in educational campaigns and provide comprehensive information to potential users, highlighting the long-term advantages and sustainability aspects of solventless laminating adhesives. As knowledge spreads and misconceptions are dispelled, the market's expansion is likely to gain momentum.

Key Market Trends

Growing Demand for Water-Based Solventless Laminating Adhesives

The increasing demand for water-based solventless laminating adhesives stands as a pivotal trend driving the growth of the global solventless laminating adhesive market. Water-based formulations have gained prominence due to their eco-friendliness, reduced emissions, and compliance with stringent environmental regulations. This trend is particularly significant in industries where sustainability is a paramount concern, such as food packaging, where avoiding volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and ensuring product safety are critical.

Water-based solventless laminating adhesives offer several advantages, including low odor, improved workplace safety, and compatibility with various substrates. These adhesives address both the need for performance and the call for environmental responsibility, making them a preferred choice among manufacturers looking to align with sustainability goals.

As the awareness of these benefits continues to grow and environmental considerations become increasingly central to decision-making in industries worldwide, the demand for water-based solventless laminating adhesives is expected to surge, further propelling the growth of the global market. Manufacturers are likely to invest in research and development to expand their water-based adhesive offerings to cater to this burgeoning demand.

Increasing adoption of solventless laminating adhesives in new applications

The rising adoption of solventless laminating adhesives in new and diverse applications is a pivotal trend shaping the growth trajectory of the global solventless laminating adhesive market. Traditionally, these adhesives found extensive use in the packaging industry. However, their exceptional performance characteristics, including environmental friendliness, superior bonding strength, and versatility, have sparked interest in various other industries.

Solventless laminating adhesives are now venturing into non-traditional sectors, such as automotive, electronics, healthcare, and construction, due to their ability to meet evolving application-specific requirements. For instance, in the automotive sector, where lightweight materials and durability are essential, solventless adhesives are being employed for bonding composites and high-performance components. Similarly, in electronics, these adhesives are used for semiconductor bonding and flexible circuitry assembly.

This diversification of applications not only expands the market's scope but also underscores the versatility and adaptability of solventless laminating adhesives, making them a preferred choice for manufacturers seeking high-performance solutions in an array of industries. As these adhesives continue to find new applications, their market growth is poised to accelerate.

Segmental Insights

Chemistry Insights

Based on type, the Isocyanate-Based Solventless Laminating Adhesives segment emerged as the dominant player in the global market for Solventless Laminating Adhesive in 2022. Isocyanate-based adhesives are known for their exceptional bonding strength, chemical resistance, and durability. They are often favored in applications where robust adhesion to various substrates, such as metalized films and foil, is crucial. Industries like automotive and flexible packaging may prefer Isocyanate-based adhesives for their ability to provide secure and long-lasting bonds, contributing to product performance and shelf-life preservation.

Polyol-based adhesives, on the other hand, are valued for their flexibility, heat resistance, and compatibility with a wide range of substrates, including plastic films and paper. They are often chosen in applications where flexibility and conformability are essential, such as in the production of flexible packaging materials. Polyol-based adhesives may also be favored in applications with stringent regulatory requirements, where their lower emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) align with sustainability goals.

Application Insights

The food packaging segment is projected to experience rapid growth during the forecast period. Food packaging is a critical application area for solventless laminating adhesives. Consumers prioritize food safety, freshness, and sustainability. Solventless laminating adhesives are well-suited to meet these requirements, as they provide secure and airtight seals that preserve the quality of packaged food products. Additionally, they are often preferred in applications involving microwaveable or heat-sealed food packaging due to their resistance to heat.

Beverage packaging is another significant segment, especially in the context of bottled beverages, juice pouches, and flexible drink containers. Solventless laminating adhesives offer excellent barrier properties, which are crucial for preventing moisture and oxygen ingress that can affect the taste and quality of beverages. As the beverage industry continues to innovate with new packaging formats and materials, solventless adhesives may play a dominant role in ensuring product integrity.

Regional Insights

The Asia-Pacific region has firmly established its dominance in the global market share of laminating adhesives. This supremacy can be attributed to the burgeoning manufacturing activities and a growing requirement for flexible packaging in countries like China, India, and Japan.

Asia-Pacific stands as the largest consumer within the packaging industry, primarily driven by the substantial demand for food in major economies such as China, India, and Japan. China, although a late entrant into the packaging sector, has witnessed remarkable growth over the decades, owing to factors like a burgeoning middle-class population, improved supply-chain systems, and the emergence of e-commerce activities.

The growth of the packaging industry in China is further propelled by heightened attention to food safety and quality, particularly in the post-pandemic era. This renewed focus is expected to boost the food processing industry, subsequently driving down the demand for packaging in the years to come.

India, another significant consumer of packaged foods and beverages, anticipates substantial growth in its packaging industry, with projections from the Packaging Industry Association of India (PIAI) indicating a 22% growth during the forecast period. The demand for frozen foods in India is also projected to witness approximately 17% growth in the coming years. Additionally, with the Indian government's emphasis on the food processing sector, there is an expected surge in the supply of processed agri-foods, which is likely to stimulate demand for the packaging industry and, consequently, contribute to the growth of the laminating adhesives market. Given these factors and the supportive stance of governments, the Asia-Pacific region is poised to witness a significant surge in laminating adhesives consumption during the forecast period.

Key Market Players

Ashland Inc

Dow Inc

Songwon International AG

Bostik SA

Morchem SA

DIC Corp

ACTEGA Kelstar, Inc.

Toyochem Co Ltd

Toyo-Morton Ltd

BASF SE

Report Scope:

In this report, the Global Solventless Laminating Adhesive Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

• Solventless Laminating Adhesive Market, By Type:
• Isocyanate
• Polyol
• Solventless Laminating Adhesive Market, By Application:
• Food Packaging
• Beverage Packaging
• Others
• Solventless Laminating Adhesive Market, By Region:
• Asia-Pacific
• China
• India
• Japan
• Australia
• South Korea
• North America
• United States
• Canada
• Mexico
• Europe
• France
• United Kingdom
• Italy
• Germany
• Spain
• South America
• Brazil
• Argentina
• Colombia
• Middle East & Africa
• South Africa
• Saudi Arabia
• UAE
• Kuwait
• Turkey
• Egypt

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the Global Solventless Laminating Adhesive Market.

Company Information

• Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).

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