Rising Demand for Energy-Efficient and High-Performance Buildings
The increasing focus on energy efficiency and building performance has become one of the key drivers of the adhesive and sealant market for building envelopes. With energy conservation and greater indoor comfort being significant factors for modern construction methods, there has been a trend toward the use of high-performance building envelope systems. Adhesives and Sealants are instrumental in meeting the objectives of building envelope systems by providing an airtight and watertight seal to prevent heat transfer through conduction or infiltration of air or moisture.
Building Energy codes and regulatory structures throughout the world are becoming more stringent regarding a building's energy performance metrics. These regulations typically require that buildings be constructed to required performance levels in order to reduce the amount of energy needed to heat/cool the interior of the building, reduce the amount of air leaking into/out of the building, and control moisture entering/exiting from the building. According to Industry sources, the strengthening of building energy codes in numerous countries has markedly increased the demand for sealing solutions.
In addition to regulatory requirements, the growing adoption of green certifications such as LEED or other sustainable building practices is dramatically impacting the growth of the adhesive and sealant market for building envelopes. Many green certifications focus on energy efficiency, indoor air quality and overall environmental impact, thus promoting the use of high-performance products within the building construction industry. Adhesives and sealants support these goals by providing a continuous air barrier and improving thermal insulation performance.
In addition, there is also the increased trend toward developing energy-efficient, sustainable building materials. Energy efficiency is no longer just a passing fad; it has become an expectation of the modern consumer and the new generation of builders.
Growth in Sustainable Construction and Low-VOC Technologies
The transition to sustainable construction methods and eco-friendly materials will create key opportunities for the adhesives & sealants market for building envelopes. As governments, regulatory agencies and stakeholders in the building industry continue to place emphasis on reducing the adverse effects of construction activity on the environment, the use of green building materials and technologies is becoming more prevalent.
One of the major trends in this market is the increasing demand for low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) and solvent-free adhesive systems. Solvent-based adhesives traditionally emit toxic substances that can adversely affect indoor air quality and contributed to air pollution. To that end, manufacturers are developing water-based and solvent-free adhesive systems that meet strict environmental requirements while still providing high performance. These types of environmentally friendly adhesive & sealants are beginning to be used in both residential and commercial applications.
Another opportunity lies within the growing popularity of prefabricated and modular construction techniques. In order to efficiently bond prefabricated components in a controlled environment, the construction industry has to rely on high-performance adhesive systems. Adhesives and sealants are critical to maintaining the integrity of prefabricated components' structural performance and their properly sealed against air infiltration; therefore, they play a significant role in today's construction environment.
In addition, with a focus on lifecycle performance and durability, there is an increasing demand for advanced types of adhesive systems. Building owners and developers are also requesting materials that will provide life-cycle benefits.
