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Market Overview

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The structural adhesives market is poised to witness significant growth, with a projected CAGR of 6.59% from 2022 to 2027, reaching $21.26 billion by 2027 compared to $14.50 billion in 2021. Structural adhesive is a highly versatile type of adhesive used to bond two surfaces through adhesion. The key components in structural adhesive formulations are resins and hardeners (curing agents). The demand from the building and construction sector is currently dominating the market and is expected to continue its dominance in the forecast period.

The increasing construction activities, driven by population growth, rising remodeling and renovation projects in Europe and North America, growing commercial spaces, and road and highway construction, are fueling the demand for epoxy adhesive in the building and construction industry. Asia-Pacific (APAC) is projected to be the major revenue generator, surpassing $20 billion by 2027. The building and construction industry is the largest consumer of structural adhesives, accounting for the highest revenue share of 30.95% among all end-user segments in 2021.

Acrylic structural adhesive resin is expected to grow at a CAGR of over 7% during the forecast period, making it the fastest-growing resin type. Epoxy structural adhesive, which is widely preferred in building and construction, automotive, aerospace, electrical and electronic, and wind energy industries, represents the second-largest sub-segment. The growth potential in this segment lies in the extensive use of epoxy in these industries. Water-based adhesives, the largest sub-segment in terms of technology, are experiencing positive growth due to flourishing building and furniture industries, with a projected CAGR of over 6%.

In terms of materials used, composites hold the majority market share with 38.25% revenue in 2021, followed by metal with 34.18% and wood with 12.65%. The market is fairly consolidated, with the top 6-8 businesses accounting for 35% to 40% of the demand, while small and mid-sized businesses share the remaining 60% and are gradually expanding across regions.

The rapid development of infrastructure and growing demand are key drivers of the market’s growth in the APAC region, particularly in India, China, and Japan, where significant semiconductor and automotive production centers are located. In 2021, Europe was the second-largest consumer of structural adhesives due to the presence of global automotive and transportation manufacturers as well as the electronics industry, which contribute to the region’s demand.

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Market Segmentation

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The market is segmented based on various factors, including resin, technology, substrates, end-user, and geography.

Segmentation by Resin
Acrylic
Epoxy
Polyurethane
Cyanoacrylate
Others

Segmentation by Technology
Water-Based
Solvent-Based
Others

Segmentation by Substrates
Composite
Metal
Wood
Plastic
Others

Segmentation by End-Users
Building and Construction
Automotive
Aerospace
Electrical and Electronics
Wind Energy
Marine
Medical Devices
Others

Segmentation by Geography
North America – US, Canada
Europe – Germany, France, UK, Italy, Russia, Turkey
APAC – China, Japan, India, South Korea, Indonesia
Latin America – Brazil, Mexico
Middle East & Africa – South Africa, Saudi Arabia, UAE

Epoxy resin is widely recognized for its strong adhesion properties, and it is projected to contribute USD 6.09 billion to the global structural adhesives market by 2027, indicating a substantial growth rate of 47.09%.

Among the different types of structural adhesives, water-based adhesives hold the leading position in revenue generation, amounting to USD 7.49 billion in 2021. Following closely behind is solvent-based structural adhesive. The popularity of water-based adhesives can be attributed to their low or zero VOC emissions. Consequently, water-borne structural adhesives are expected to dominate the market during the forecast period.

Composite adhesives, known for their strong bonding capabilities and resistance to chemicals and heat, find extensive application across various industries. The increasing demand for lightweight materials in the aerospace sector has led to enhanced engine performance. As the use of composite materials grows to reduce fuel consumption, the demand for structural adhesives for bonding and sealing purposes is expected to rise.

In the shipbuilding industry, methyl methacrylate adhesives and epoxy adhesives are primarily used to bond the hull to the boat frame, creating a durable and robust bond. These adhesives are specifically designed for marine applications to ensure smooth sailing, with additional features such as anti-fouling, anti-corrosion, and self-cleaning properties. During the forecast period, the marine structural adhesives segment is projected to account for a revenue share of 6.30%.

The Asia-Pacific (APAC) region has emerged as the largest consumer of structural adhesives, with a market value exceeding $5 billion in 2021. China, India, and Japan are the major contributors to this regional market. China, boasting extensive production facilities and ample availability of raw materials, is positioned as the largest market for structural adhesives. The country is expected to serve as a significant semiconductor market, meeting both domestic demand and exporting materials and products to other regions.

Germany holds the largest share in the global structural adhesives market and is anticipated to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.14% during the forecast period. Factors such as low-interest rates, a growing population, and job security support the construction sector’s growth, which, in turn, is expected to drive the market.

The North American market for structural adhesives is mature but still projected to witness significant growth, with an absolute increase of 44.31% between 2021 and 2027, resulting in incremental growth of USD 1.54 billion. Canada, being one of the top ten producers of light vehicles, is expected to generate substantial demand for adhesives from the automotive industry.

Latin America accounts for approximately USD 0.76 billion and 5.25% of the global structural adhesives market share. The region benefits from easy access to raw materials, cost-effective labor, and proximity to major consumer markets such as the United States and Canada. This has facilitated the growth of value-added manufacturing output in sectors like automotive, packaging, and aerospace. Latin America is projected to witness incremental growth of USD 0.32 billion, primarily driven by the high demand for raw epoxy-based structural adhesives, which are expected to surge at a CAGR of 6.32%.

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Competitive Landscape

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The global structural adhesive market exhibits a fragmented nature, with the presence of numerous global and domestic players across different regions. Key players in this market include 3M, Sika, Henkel, H.B. Fuller, and Arkema (Bostik).

Most major players are actively pursuing business expansion through profitable partnerships, acquisitions of small or mid-sized vendors, or by vertically integrating specific adhesive segments to enhance their global presence. On the other hand, domestic vendors focus on developing product portfolios tailored to regional requirements.

For instance, Avery Dennison acquired ACPO, a leading manufacturer of self-wound, pressure-sensitive roll label films for the packaging industry, at a value of USD 87.6 million. This acquisition aims to bolster Avery Dennison’s adhesive label business.

Among the top manufacturers and distributors of structural adhesives is 3M, whose innovative product offerings include the 3M Hi-Strength 94 ET Spray Adhesive. This adhesive can bond laminates, woods, metals, particleboard, soft foams, lighter weight materials, and substrates with more porous surfaces. 3M has allocated USD 1.9 billion for research and development to further advance their product in the future.

Henkel, another major player, offers a wide range of adhesives and sealants under brands such as LOCTITE, TECHNOMELT, and BONDERITE. The company has experienced exceptional growth across all business segments in the Asia-Pacific region, while their expansion in North America and Western Europe can be attributed to the rising demand for adhesives and sealants in industries like construction, automotive, and metals. Additionally, the increasing demand from craftsmen and other professional businesses has contributed to Henkel’s growth.

Sika, known for its products like SikaPower and Sikaflex, boasts a global presence in over 100 countries and reported sales of approximately USD 8.51 billion. Sika’s strength in research and development is exemplified by their Sika smart core technology, further showcasing the company’s commitment to advancing adhesive solutions.

Key companies profiled in this report include 3M, Henkel, Sika, H.B. Fuller, Arkema (Bostik), Ashland, Dow Chemical Company, Huntsman International, Dymax, Beacon adhesives, PPG industries, Parker Lord, Infinity Bond, Chemence, Mapei, DuPont, Masterbond, Akzo Nobel N.V., ITW Performance Polymers, Uniseal, Delo, Soudal Group, Scott Bader, Parson Adhesives, Panacol-Elosol-Gmbh, Staloc.

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Key Questions Answered

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What is the projected size of the structural adhesives market and its growth rate during the forecast period?

The global structural adhesives market was valued at USD 14.50 billion in 2021 and is anticipated to reach USD 21.26 billion by 2027, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.59%.

Who are the key vendors in the structural adhesives market?

Prominent vendors in the structural adhesives market include 3M, Henkel, Sika, H.B. Fuller, and Arkema (Bostik).

Which type of structural adhesive resin is the most profitable and preferred?

Toughened acrylic adhesives have proven to be the most profitable and preferred resin type in terms of revenue.

Which region dominates the largest share of the structural adhesives market?

The Asia-Pacific (APAC) region is expected to contribute the largest share of USD 8.48 billion to the structural adhesives market.

What are the emerging megatrends in the structural adhesives industry?

Emerging megatrends in the structural adhesives industry include the increasing adoption of electric vehicles, rising demand for energy-efficient buildings, and the growing need for enhanced crash safety requirements in vehicles.