>> Susan Sutton, editor-in-chief

Building a Strong Industry

Events like the World Adhesive and Sealant Conference offer the industry a means to come together, make meaningful connections, and build opportunities for long-term growth.

I almost had to pinch myself at the 2022 World Adhesive and Sealant Conference (WAC) welcome reception in April. We had all waited for years to come together as a global industry, and it finally happened! Despite the pandemic-related postponements, WAC 2022 was truly well worth the wait.

The event offered adhesives and sealants professionals from all over the world a means to come together, make meaningful connections, and build opportunities for long-term growth. Turn to my wrap-up article, “Industry Reunites at World Adhesive and Sealant Conference,” to read all about it.

One key theme at WAC 2022 was the industry’s ongoing commitment to innovation. It’s a topic that’s near and dear to my heart, and we’re exploring research and development activities in this issue with a discussion focusing on R&D-related challenges, opportunities, and digitalization strategies. Check out the roundtable to learn how industry players Henkel, Berry Global, and Omya are “Focusing on Research and Development.”

This month, we are also featuring equipment descriptions as a companion to our online Equipment Handbook directory located at www.adhesivesmag.com/equipmenthandbook. In this issue, we detail hundreds of different pieces of equipment used in the development, production, and application of adhesives and sealants and related products, in the hope of helping you better understand the equipment you need for your operation. Supplier logos and mini-ads are also included for your convenience.*

The online Equipment Handbook directory is always available to help you source the equipment you’re interested in. Fully searchable, the directory features suppliers’ contact information and a description of their offerings, as well as our easy-to-use Request for Proposal feature.*

You are invited to use this sourcing guide and the online handbook in tandem as trusted tools for researching equipment and locating suppliers throughout the year. Be sure to bookmark the online handbook at www.adhesivesmag.com/equipmenthandbook for quick access!