One argument many industries have against environmental regulation has been that it often ignores a holistic view of a product and instead focuses on only one attribute (e.g., volatile organic compounds, or VOCs).

2013 can only be characterized as the first year in the recent past where all was quiet on the front lines of the adhesives and sealants industry—especially as compared to the significant volatility the industry has been experiencing since the beginning of the 2008 recession.

This issue of ASI is very exciting for our staff, because we’re able to announce the winners of the first-annual ASI Readers’ Choice Awards!

QUESTION: I see many so-called “five-minute” epoxy adhesives (and sometimes ones with even shorter cure times). Are these adhesives truly strong and durable?

New rules recently went into effect that allow young companies to advertise and crowdsource online for investors. Have you ever contributed to a crowdfunding platform such as Kickstarter?

Last week, readers were most interested in the simplification of Celanese’s brand structure.

Do you think that the EPA should have been allowed to remain operating during the government shutdown?

Henkel’s collaboration with multiple large chemical companies to address sustainability issues drew the most interest last week.

What are you most looking forward to at the Adhesive and Sealant Council (ASC) Fall Convention and Expo?

News of an acquisition and a divestment by Berry Plastics drew the most interest last week.