Adhesives and Sealants Topics

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Introduced in 1960, ultraviolet (UV) curable ink has resulted in increased automation, particularly in the manufacturing sector. Originally, water- and solvent-based inks were used for flexographic printing, textile printing, screen printing, and more.

Demand for converted flexible packaging in the U.S. is projected to increase 3.3% annually to $20.7 billion in 2019. Although advances will decelerate from the pace of the past decade, converted flexible packaging will remain a growth area in both food and nonfood applications due to the inherent cost and performance advantages of lightweight bags and pouches.

Downtime—both planned and unplanned—can have a pronounced impact on packing line efficiency and throughput. This downtime, caused by film roll changes, registration errors, catastrophic film failures, bottlenecks, and more, is costly and may seem impossible to avoid. Taking appropriate steps to streamline processes wherever possible can help to mitigate the repercussions of downtime, improving overall line efficiency and thus profitability.

The Internet of Everything, cloud computing/big data and 3D printing are three of the technologies most likely to transform the world during the next five years, according to IHS Technology.

Light-curing adhesives are essential in many industries because they speed up the production process. Many applications in the optoelectronics and automotive industries, such as cameras, electronics displays, and LEDs and sensors, wouldn’t be possible without the use of these types of adhesives.

Anyone who has read even a few of my previous columns knows I have a cynical streak. I could blame it on my 30 years spent in Washington, D.C., but I suspect I’ve always been a “glass half empty” sort of guy. However, I have now seen that miracles can happen and I have to believe what took place in the Senate with the Toxic Substance Control Act (TSCA) reform bill just before year’s end qualifies.

Scientists and engineers have long used biomimicry as a way to find solutions to today’s problems in nature. For example, studying shark skin has led to new materials that bacteria cannot attach to, birds and bats have inspired aircraft design, and investigating plant leaves has resulted in light absorption efficiency innovations in solar panels.

Electronic devices are everywhere nowadays,―from the touchscreen checkout monitors at the local library and grocery store to car dashboard navigation systems and communications―applications that we wouldn’t have dreamed could exist just a couple decades ago.