>> Karen Parker, editor-in-chief
FROM THE EDITOR
Susan Sutton served as Editor-in-Chief, Integrated Media, of ASI magazine for many years. If you wish to send a letter to the editor, please contact Tom Fowler at fowlert@bnpmedia.com. Letters may be edited for space and clarity.
Adhesive and sealant Innovations are Fueling Growth in Transportation
In this month's issue of ASI, we are featuring a number of topics, including formulating ultra-low monomer solvent-free adhesives, how to optimize a manufacturing process with heat-activated sealants and structural adhesives, using captured carbon to create methanol for adhesives, and innovations for the packaging of adhesives. Also included in this issue is an article on the use of adhesives for train design and performance. Adhesives are making trains lighter, more attractive, and more sustainable. This article outlines how that is happening and the unique challenges when choosing materials.
If you live close to Detroit, the automotive capital, the first big event of the year is always the North American International Auto Show, known locally as the Detroit Auto Show. The show serves as a major platform for car manufacturers from around the world to unveil their latest models, concept cars, and cutting-edge technologies. In spite of the futuristic outlook of many of its exhibitors, the Detroit Auto Show actually started more than a century ago. Since its first event in 1907, the show has seen some ups and downs. Similarly, the Detroit area has also seen the automotive industry itself go through ups and downs. Currently, the industry is in the midst of another big change as automotive manufacturers move from vehicles powered by fossil-based fuel to electric vehicles. As with trains, the automotive industry is also utilizing adhesives to make cars lighter and manufacturing more efficient. Market reports on adhesives in transportation show the growing use of the technology in that entire sector.
According to a recent report, the transportation industry is an important driver propelling the growth of the high-performance adhesives market. This sector has a pivotal role in global trade, supply chains, and personal mobility. Trends such as the growth in online shopping, urbanization, population growth, and infrastructure development are triggering the expansion of the transportation industry. High-performance adhesives, by reducing vehicle weight and enhancing durability, increase fuel efficiency and minimize maintenance costs, giving a significant boost to the transportation industry. The Bureau of Transportation Statistics reported in April 2024 that the total contribution of transportation to GDP surged from 6.3% in 2021 to 6.7% in 2022.
A report on the global aerospace sealants market was recently released by Persistence Market Research. That report projects growth in that market from $ 1.7 billion in 2025 to 2.5 billion by 2032, driven by rising demand in both commercial and military aviation sectors. The growth is fueled by the need for lightweight, fuel-efficient materials, advancements in sealant technology, and increased aircraft production. According to that report, key trends shaping the market include a shift toward lightweight, high-performance materials like silicone, polyurethane, and polysulfide, as well as advancements in aerospace technologies like electric and supersonic aircraft. Stringent safety and regulatory standards also drive demand for durable, high-quality sealants that comply with airworthiness regulations. Growth in the global aerospace sealants market is driven by factors such as expanding air traffic, aircraft fleet growth, and increased demand for commercial and military aircraft.
I hope you enjoy this issue of ASI. As always, if you have comments or suggestions, please contact me at parkerk@bnpmedia.com.