According to a new report published by Pristine Intelligence, titled, “Low VOC Adhesive Market by Type, Chemistry and End-User Industry: Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2024–2032,” the global Low VOC Adhesive Market Size Was Valued at USD 44.3 Billion in 2023, and is Projected to Reach USD 69.32 Billion by 2032, Growing at a CAGR of 5.1% From 2024-2032. The Low VOC Adhesive Market encompasses adhesives formulated with minimal or no volatile organic compounds (VOCs), substances known for their potential harm to health and the environment. These adhesives, featuring reduced VOC content, are designed to mitigate emissions of harmful fumes during application and curing. Notably, high-strength, solvent-based Low-VOC gluing Adhesives facilitate bonding materials like TPO and EPDM membranes to various porous and non-porous substrates. Compared to conventional adhesives, the use of low VOC alternatives can significantly decrease VOC emissions by 70–90%.

Low VOC adhesives prioritize environmental and human safety by minimizing or eliminating the release of harmful emissions. They achieve this through advanced technologies that either absorb or neutralize VOCs or through alternative materials and production methods that result in fewer VOCs being generated.

Formerly confined to applications in food packaging and healthcare, low volatile organic compound (VOC) adhesives are now finding wider acceptance across various industries. Their robust bonding capabilities and minimal impact on indoor air quality are driving their increasing adoption in sectors like construction and carpentry, particularly for flooring, furniture, and building materials. Simultaneously, in the packaging industry, there's a rising preference for low VOC adhesives, especially in flexible packaging and carton sealing, fueled by the growing demand for eco-friendly solutions propelled by the rise of e-commerce.

Various industries are witnessing a surge in demand for eco-friendly adhesives, driven by a focus on sustainability initiatives and adherence to stringent standards. This trend presents significant opportunities for suppliers and manufacturers in the adhesive industry to capitalize on innovation and market expansion. By investing in research and development to create sustainable adhesive formulations, businesses can meet regulatory requirements, cater to customer preferences, and contribute to a more sustainable future.

The presence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in these products has prompted the EPA (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency) to enforce stricter emission regulations due to their detrimental effects on human health and contribution to air pollution. Consequently, there is a growing disincentive for businesses to produce high-VOC products, leading to innovation in environmentally friendlier alternatives. These substitutes often incorporate water- or bio-based components, aligning with consumer demand for safer and greener products. This regulatory push for sustainability coincides with increasing consumer awareness of environmental impact and a shift towards eco-conscious consumer behavior.

Global Low VOC Adhesive Market, Segmentation

The Low VOC Adhesive market is segmented on the basis of Type, Chemistry, End-User Industry, and region.

Type:

The packaging type segment is further classified into Water-based Adhesives, Holt-melt Adhesives, and Reactive. Among these, the Water-based Adhesives sub-segment accounted for the highest market share in 2023. Water-based adhesives offer exceptional versatility and bonding capabilities, making them well-suited for a wide array of demanding applications across various industries. These adhesives, comprising water, polymers, and additives, exhibit excellent adhesion on both porous and non-porous substrates.

Chemistry:

Polyvinyl Acetate (PVA), commonly known as white glue, stands out as the most widely used all-purpose adhesive available. Renowned for its affordability, ease of application, and versatility, PVA has remained a staple choice since its discovery in 1912, establishing itself as a ubiquitous water-dispersed adhesive. Its user-friendly characteristics, including easy water cleanup and intuitive application methods, make it suitable for a wide range of tasks without the need for complex procedures. PVA offers sufficient initial bonding strength for materials such as cardboard, wood, and paper, rendering it ideal for various everyday applications like children's art projects, simple repairs, and crafts.

Region:

In the Asia Pacific region, there's a noticeable uptick in the popularity of low volatile organic compound (VOC) adhesives, driven by a confluence of economic and environmental factors. Consumers are increasingly aware of the health risks associated with traditional adhesives containing VOCs, thus demanding more eco-friendly alternatives. Moreover, governments are implementing stricter regulations on VOC emissions, fueling the demand for compliant low VOC products. Consequently, the low VOC adhesive market in the APAC region is anticipated to witness the fastest growth globally, presenting significant opportunities for manufacturers. Advancements in technology are facilitating the development of low VOC adhesives that match the performance of conventional options, eliminating the trade-off between efficacy and sustainability. These adhesives find applications across various industries, including packaging, transportation, and construction.

Some of the leading Low VOC Adhesive market players are

• • 3M (US)
  • Ashland Global Holdings Inc. (US)
  • H.B. Fuller (US)
  • Dow (US)
  • PPG Industries (US)
  • Lord Corporation (US)
  • Wacker Chemie (Germany)
  • Henkel (Germany)
  • Sika AG (Switzerland)
  • AkzoNobel (Netherlands), and Other Active Players.

Key Industry Developments

• • In September 2023, the largest pureplay adhesives company in the world, H.B. Fuller Company acquired the operations of UK-based Sanglier Limited, one of the biggest independently owned producers and fillers of sprayable industrial adhesives (aerosol and canister). The acquisition complements technologies acquired through the acquisitions of Apollo and Fourny and sprays capabilities developed in the United States.

Key Findings of the Study / Key Industry Developments. 

• • The global Low VOC Adhesive market is projected to grow from USD 44.3 billion in 2023 to USD 69.32 billion by 2032, at a CAGR of 5.1%.

• • Water-based adhesives dominate the market due to versatility and superior performance.
  • Water-based adhesives dominate the market due to versatility and superior performance.