Increasing Aerospace Manufacturing Efficiency

An innovative two-part room-temperature paste adhesive is increasing efficiency for aerospace manufacturers.

By Karen Parker, Editor-in-Chief, ASI

Increasing Aerospace Manufacturing Efficiency with Paste Adhesive

An innovative two-part room-temperature paste adhesive is increasing efficiency for aerospace manufacturers.

The global aerospace adhesives and sealants market is projected to reach $1,319.6 million in 2024, with a forecasted compound annual growth rate of 7.0% from 2025 to 2030, according to a report released last year from Grand View Research. According to the study, growth is largely fueled by the aerospace industry's push for lighter, more fuel-efficient aircraft to reduce emissions. As manufacturers increasingly adopt materials like composites and aluminum alloys, adhesives and sealants are essential for providing strong, lightweight bonding solutions that eliminate the need for heavier fasteners. Their ability to withstand extreme temperatures and pressure also supports broader adoption in demanding aerospace environments.

Additionally, the aerospace industry is following the same path as other manufacturers as it continues to add automation to its facilities, reshaping tools and innovating new processes.

An innovative two-part room-temperature paste adhesive is increasing efficiency for aerospace manufacturers. AeroPaste^® 1003 is a new grade of Syensqo's epoxy-based structural paste adhesives, which already includes AeroPaste 1006 and 1100. The adhesive will help to increase part assembly efficiency and will provide great processing flexibility. It is suitable for targeted high production rates in markets such as advanced air mobility, commercial aerospace, and defense.

The adhesive is designed for structural bonding of metallic and composite parts, rapid assembly, repair applications, and is suitable for out-of-autoclave use. It has excellent high-temperature strength performance and is easy to mix with controlled flow properties to allow for easy dispensing. It provides film-like properties and performance, comparable or superior to leading film adhesives currently on the market.

The adhesive can be used in automated processes supporting industrialization requirements in the aerospace industry by increasing manufacturers' efficiency and output thanks to its fast and easy application.

This adhesive offers a strong balance of shear and peel strength, making it reliable for demanding applications. It performs well at elevated temperatures, withstanding up to 150 °C (300 °F) in dry conditions. After 24 hours at room temperature (21 °C/70 °F), it achieves sufficient handling strength for further processing. The formulation is engineered to resist heat and moisture, while its 2:1 mixing ratio ensures user-friendly preparation. With a generous open time of approximately three hours, it allows flexibility during assembly. Its controlled slump characteristics make it ideal for intricate or vertical bonding, and it is compatible with autoclave, press, and jig processes thanks to a wide processing window.

"Syensqo's longstanding leadership in the development of aerospace adhesive technologies has led us to develop the next generation of paste adhesives that meet the industry's need for higher rate assembly and joining," said Dr. Stephen Heinz, vice president of Research and Innovation of Syensqo’s Composite Materials Business.