Transportation has evolved tremendously over the last century. From horse and buggy to steam power, the internal combustion engine, multi-speed powertrains, and the latest push for hybrids and electrification—the way things move has changed tremendously.

According to the National Pest Management Association, 37% of homeowners have seen a rodent in their home in the past year. As we mark Pest & Rodent Awareness Week in October, it’s important to take a proactive approach to deter these critters before they find a way into a building.

The global pine chemicals market is estimated to grow with a CAGR of over 5% from 2019-2027 to reach a value of over $19 billion.

As the corrugating industry’s workhorse, adhesives are diverse and cover a wide range of chemistries, forms, applications, and necessities. Packaging itself varies from heat-sealed polymers to plastics, foils, and paperboard.

Adhesives and sealants have a long history in shipbuilding and marine industries, providing protection against water, chemicals, weather, and environmental degradation. In the earliest days of seafaring, natural sealants such as pine resins were cooked down and applied liberally, requiring regular re-treatments. 

Consumer sentiment continues to drive sustainability throughout the economy and society. Consumers often view packaging as wasteful, and they demand more sustainable options as a result. Many terms, such as reuse, recycle, compost, and reduction, resonate positively with consumers.

Manufacturers and scientists are continually pushing the envelope on eco-friendly adhesives, sealants, coatings, and potting and encapsulation compounds. Demand for green and sustainable formulations is expected to keep growing due to tightening legislation, consumer awareness, and new opportunities.

Surfactants are widely used in a range of adhesives and sealants, primarily to promote the wetting of surfaces to promote adhesion. Unfortunately, some of them have been found to have suspect toxicity profiles or environmental issues.

Currently, mastic is available to commercial and DIY consumers primarily in squeeze tubes and 10-oz cartridges. Although the sausage packaging format exists as an alternative, in a 20-oz size and a smaller “mini” option (2-3.5 oz), its availability is limited—as a stroll down the sealant aisle of Home Depot or Lowes will confirm.