Low Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) Adhesives Market

• In September 2020, Arkema announced the inauguration of the new adhesives plant in Japan which will enable Bostik to serve the Japanese customers in the continuously growing markets of hygiene, packaging, labelling, transportation, and electronics. This expansion of Bostik’s is in the line with its growth and geographical expansion strategy.

• In March 2021, DriTac is a well-recognized name in the US floor covering industry, with a strong reputation in the wood floor bonding segment. DriTac brings long-established customer and distributor relationships across the country that are highly complementary to Sika’s existing network. This deal will help to accelerate Sika’s expansion in the interior finishing market in the US. The acquired business has generated a revenue of USD 22.26 million in 2020.

The technology segment of low VOC adhesives includes various application methods, such as water-based, solvent-based, hot melt, and reactive adhesives. Water-based adhesives dominate the market due to their lower environmental impact and ease of use in various applications. These adhesives are preferred for their minimal VOC emissions and their effectiveness in packaging, automotive, and construction industries. Solvent-based adhesives, although still in use, are gradually being replaced by low VOC alternatives due to stricter environmental regulations. Hot melt adhesives are growing in popularity as they provide quick bonding and minimal VOC emissions, making them ideal for packaging and automotive industries. Lastly, reactive adhesives are used in high-performance applications that require durable, long-lasting bonds, such as in electronics and construction. The development of new, advanced adhesive technologies is driving the market toward more sustainable and eco-friendly solutions.

The chemistry segment of low VOC adhesives includes epoxies, polyurethanes, acrylics, and other formulations. Epoxies are valued for their strong adhesive properties, especially in industrial applications like electronics and automotive, where durability and performance are key. Polyurethanes are used in applications that require flexibility and resistance to environmental factors, making them ideal for use in automotive, construction, and furniture industries. Acrylic adhesives are gaining popularity due to their excellent bonding properties, weather resistance, and low toxicity, which makes them suitable for a wide range of applications, including automotive, building & construction, and packaging. The growth of the low VOC adhesive market is driven by the increasing demand for eco-friendly solutions across different industries, pushing companies to invest in developing chemistry formulations that meet these requirements.

In terms of end use, low VOC adhesives are widely used across various industries, including automotive, construction, packaging, electronics, and consumer goods. In the automotive sector, the need for environmentally friendly and efficient bonding materials has driven the adoption of low VOC adhesives, which offer strong performance without compromising vehicle safety or structural integrity. In construction, low VOC adhesives are used for bonding flooring, tiles, and insulation materials, contributing to healthier indoor environments and improved air quality. The packaging industry is also a significant consumer of low VOC adhesives, as manufacturers seek to meet sustainability goals and comply with increasingly stringent environmental regulations. Electronics manufacturers require adhesives that not only offer low VOCs but also provide strong, long-lasting bonds for devices such as smartphones, computers, and wearables. Consumer goods and furniture manufacturers are increasingly using low VOC adhesives to improve product quality while reducing environmental impacts, which aligns with growing consumer demand for eco-friendly products.

The geography segment of the low VOC adhesive market includes key regions such as North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa. North America and Europe lead the market, driven by stringent environmental regulations that encourage the adoption of low VOC adhesives in various industries, particularly automotive, construction, and packaging. Asia Pacific is witnessing rapid growth due to the increasing industrialization, urbanization, and demand for sustainable solutions in emerging economies such as China and India. The Latin American market is expanding as manufacturers in the region seek to comply with environmental standards and improve product quality. The Middle East & Africa is gradually adopting low VOC adhesives as sustainability becomes more of a priority in the region’s industrial and construction sectors.

Global Low Voc Adhesive Segment Analysis

In this report, the Global Low Voc Adhesive Market has been segmented by Technology, Chemistry, End Use, and Geography.

Global Low Voc Adhesive Market, Segmentation by Technology

The Global Low Voc Adhesive Market has been segmented by Technology into Water-Based Adhesives, Hot-Melt Adhesives and Reactive & Other Adhesives.

Water-based adhesives are the most common type in the low-VOC segment due to their minimal environmental impact and versatility. These adhesives use water as a solvent, which evaporates during application, resulting in lower emissions of volatile organic compounds. They are widely used in construction, packaging, and consumer goods due to their eco-friendly nature and effectiveness in bonding various materials. Water-based adhesives are also favored for their ease of application and clean-up, making them a popular choice in both industrial and residential applications.

Hot-melt adhesives are another key segment in the low-VOC market. These adhesives are applied in a molten state and solidify upon cooling, providing strong and durable bonds. Hot-melt adhesives are valued for their quick setting times and strong adhesion properties, making them ideal for applications in packaging, automotive, and manufacturing. Their low-VOC formulations help reduce environmental and health impacts, aligning with the industry's move towards more sustainable practices.

Reactive & other adhesives, including polyurethane and epoxy-based adhesives, are also contributing to the low-VOC market. These adhesives cure through chemical reactions rather than evaporation, which can result in lower VOC emissions compared to traditional solvent-based options. They are used in applications requiring high-performance bonding and durability, such as in aerospace, automotive, and industrial settings. The development of low-VOC formulations in this category addresses the need for advanced adhesives that meet environmental regulations while providing superior performance.

Global Low Voc Adhesive Market, Segmentation by Chemistry

The Global Low Voc Adhesive Market has been segmented by Chemistry into PVA Emulsion, PAE Emulsion, VAE Emulsion, Polyurethane, Epoxy and Others.

PVA (polyvinyl acetate) emulsion adhesives are widely used for their non-toxic and low-VOC properties. These adhesives are commonly employed in applications such as woodworking, paper bonding, and packaging. PVA emulsions provide a strong bond and are valued for their ease of use and clean-up. Their low environmental impact and versatility make them a popular choice in both industrial and consumer applications.

PAE (polyamide epoxy) emulsion adhesives offer enhanced adhesion properties and are used in demanding applications where strong, durable bonds are required. These adhesives are known for their resistance to moisture, heat, and chemicals, making them suitable for use in construction and automotive industries. PAE emulsions provide a balance of performance and environmental compliance, contributing to their adoption in various high-performance applications.

VAE (vinyl acetate ethylene) emulsion adhesives are recognized for their excellent adhesion to a wide range of substrates and low VOC emissions. They are used in applications such as flooring, textiles, and coatings, where flexibility and strong bonding are essential. Polyurethane and epoxy adhesives, while often used in more specialized applications, also offer low-VOC options. Polyurethane adhesives provide high strength and flexibility, making them suitable for automotive and industrial uses, while epoxy adhesives are known for their exceptional durability and resistance to environmental factors. The "others" category includes various niche adhesives that are formulated to meet specific performance and environmental requirements, contributing to the market's overall diversity.

Global Low Voc Adhesive Market, Segmentation by End Use

The Global Low Voc Adhesive Market has been segmented by End Use into Paper & Packaging, Building & Construction, Woodworking, Transportation, and Others.

The paper & packaging industry is a significant end-user of low-temperature powder coatings. In this sector, coatings are used to enhance the appearance and durability of packaging materials. Low-temperature curing formulations ensure that the paper and cardboard substrates are not damaged during the coating process. These coatings are crucial for improving resistance to moisture, oil, and abrasion, making them ideal for food packaging, retail packaging, and other consumer goods applications. The demand for eco-friendly and sustainable packaging solutions also supports the growth of low-temperature powder coatings in this industry, as they offer a more environmentally friendly option compared to traditional liquid coatings.

In the building & construction sector, low-temperature powder coatings are widely used for their protective and decorative properties. Coatings in this industry are applied to a variety of materials, including metal, wood, and plastics. The coatings provide excellent resistance to weather, UV rays, and corrosion, making them suitable for architectural finishes, windows, doors, and other building components. Low-temperature curing enables the coatings to be applied without damaging sensitive materials, ensuring long-lasting durability and reducing energy consumption during production. The growing demand for sustainable building materials and energy-efficient construction solutions further drives the use of low-temperature coatings in this sector.

The woodworking industry also represents a key end user for low-temperature powder coatings, as they provide an ideal finish for wooden surfaces, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and protection. Low-temperature coatings are particularly beneficial for finishing furniture, cabinets, and other wood products, as they help retain the integrity of the wood while providing a durable, scratch-resistant, and attractive finish. These coatings are also valued for their ability to meet environmental standards, offering reduced emissions compared to solvent-based finishes. Additionally, the growing trend for eco-friendly, low-VOC products in the woodworking industry boosts the adoption of low-temperature powder coatings.

In the transportation sector, low-temperature powder coatings are used extensively for various vehicle components, such as wheels, chassis, and trim. The coatings offer superior protection against corrosion, chemicals, and wear, which is essential in transportation applications where parts are exposed to harsh environments. Additionally, low-temperature curing is beneficial as it prevents heat-sensitive components from being damaged during the coating process. As the automotive, aerospace, and rail industries increasingly focus on sustainability and energy-efficient manufacturing processes, the demand for low-temperature powder coatings in transportation applications continues to grow.

Global Low Voc Adhesive Market, Segmentation by Geography

In this report, the Global Low Voc Adhesive Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.

Global Low Voc Adhesive Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024

In 2023, the global low-VOC adhesive market demonstrates notable regional variations in market share, reflecting diverse industrial activities and regulatory landscapes across different regions.

Asia-Pacific holds the largest share of the market, driven by its robust automotive manufacturing base and expanding industrial sector. Countries like China, Japan, and India are major contributors due to their high production and consumption of lubricants. The region's rapid economic growth, coupled with advancements in automotive and industrial technologies, supports the dominant position of Asia-Pacific in the global market for viscosity grade improvers.

North America and Europe also have substantial market shares, supported by their advanced automotive industries and stringent regulatory standards. In North America, the market is driven by a well-established automotive sector and a focus on high-performance lubricants, including those with advanced viscosity grade improvers. Europe’s market is similarly influenced by its emphasis on high-quality lubricants and compliance with environmental regulations. Both regions are characterized by mature markets with a focus on innovation and performance.

Latin America and Middle East & Africa are emerging markets with growing contributions to the global viscosity grade improvers market. In Latin America, industrial growth and increased automotive activity drive demand for high-performance lubricants. The Middle East & Africa are seeing rising demand as infrastructure projects and industrial activities expand. While these regions have smaller market shares compared to Asia-Pacific, North America, and Europe, their growth potential highlights the global reach and evolving dynamics of the viscosity grade improvers market.

This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Low Voc Adhesive Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.

Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis

Drivers

• Stringent environmental regulations and standards
• Increasing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly products
• Growing awareness of health and safety concerns

• Expanding green building and construction practices - The expansion of green building and construction practices significantly boosts the demand for low-VOC adhesives. As environmental concerns and sustainability become central to the construction industry, there is a growing emphasis on materials that contribute to healthier indoor environments and reduced environmental impact. Low-VOC adhesives align with these green building standards by minimizing harmful emissions and improving indoor air quality, making them a preferred choice in green construction projects. This shift is driven by the need to meet stringent building codes and certifications, such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), which prioritize eco-friendly materials and practices.

  Green building practices also include the use of sustainable and energy-efficient materials, where low-VOC adhesives play a crucial role. These adhesives are used in various applications, including flooring, wall coverings, and insulation, contributing to the overall sustainability of building projects. By integrating low-VOC adhesives, construction professionals can enhance the environmental performance of buildings while ensuring compliance with increasingly stringent regulations aimed at reducing the carbon footprint and improving the sustainability of construction practices.

  The growth in green building and construction practices creates opportunities for innovation and development in the adhesive industry. Manufacturers are focusing on creating advanced low-VOC formulations that offer superior performance while meeting environmental and health standards. This trend not only supports the expansion of the green building sector but also drives the development of new adhesive technologies that can meet the evolving demands of sustainable construction, positioning the low-VOC adhesive market for continued growth and innovation.

Restraints

• Higher cost of low-VOC adhesive products
• Limited availability of raw materials
• Challenges in maintaining performance while reducing VOCs

• Regulatory complexity and compliance issues - Regulatory complexity and compliance issues present significant challenges in the global low-VOC adhesive market. Different regions and countries have varying regulations and standards for VOC emissions, which can be difficult for manufacturers to navigate. This variability necessitates a comprehensive understanding of local regulations and can lead to increased costs and delays in product development and market entry. Companies must ensure their products meet the specific requirements of each market, which often involves extensive testing and certification processes.

  Compliance with stringent environmental regulations can be costly and resource-intensive. Manufacturers need to invest in research and development to create formulations that meet low-VOC standards while maintaining product performance. This can involve significant expenditures on new technologies and processes to achieve compliance without compromising the effectiveness of the adhesives. The financial and operational burden of these requirements can be a barrier to entry for smaller companies or those new to the market.

  The evolving nature of environmental regulations also adds to the complexity of compliance. As governments and regulatory bodies update and tighten standards, manufacturers must continuously adapt their products and practices to remain compliant. This ongoing need for adaptation requires vigilance and flexibility, posing a challenge for companies to stay ahead of regulatory changes and avoid potential penalties or market disruptions. The regulatory landscape's complexity can impact innovation and market dynamics, influencing how manufacturers approach product development and market strategy.

Opportunities

• Growth in the green building and sustainable construction sectors
• Innovations in low-VOC adhesive formulations and technologies
• Expansion into emerging markets with increasing environmental regulations

• Increased adoption in automotive and consumer goods industries - The increased adoption of low-VOC adhesives in the automotive industry is driven by a focus on sustainability and improving vehicle interior air quality. Automotive manufacturers are integrating low-VOC adhesives in various components, including interior trims, dashboards, and bonding applications, to meet stringent emissions regulations and enhance the overall consumer experience. These adhesives contribute to a healthier cabin environment by reducing harmful emissions, aligning with the automotive industry's growing emphasis on eco-friendly practices and consumer health.

  In the consumer goods sector, low-VOC adhesives are becoming increasingly popular due to rising consumer awareness and demand for safer, environmentally friendly products. Adhesives used in furniture, flooring, and DIY products are now formulated to have lower VOC levels, reflecting the shift towards more sustainable materials. This trend is driven by consumer preferences for products that are less harmful to indoor air quality and the environment, prompting manufacturers to adopt low-VOC formulations to cater to this growing market segment.

  Both industries are benefiting from advancements in adhesive technologies that maintain high performance while reducing VOC emissions. The automotive and consumer goods sectors are embracing these innovations to meet regulatory requirements and consumer expectations. As these industries continue to focus on sustainability and health, the demand for low-VOC adhesives is expected to rise, driving growth and innovation in the market.

Low Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) Adhesives Market is becoming increasingly competitive as more than 60% of the share is held by a mix of leading producers and specialized manufacturers. The competitive edge lies in innovation, sustainability, and strategies that focus on reducing emissions. Companies are emphasizing collaboration and partnerships to strengthen their positions and ensure consistent growth.

Market Structure and Concentration

The market is moderately concentrated, with nearly 55% being dominated by large-scale manufacturers, while the rest is captured by regional players. This structure allows continuous expansion through mergers and collaboration. Market leaders adopt aggressive strategies to secure distribution networks, while regional competitors rely on innovation to maintain differentiation in the low VOC adhesive landscape.

Brand and Channel Strategies

Close to 65% of companies invest heavily in developing diversified brand portfolios and strengthening multi-channel distribution. Firms rely on direct sales, partnerships, and e-commerce to enhance growth. Increasing focus on collaboration with end-users helps companies refine their strategies. The emphasis on maintaining customer trust and building recognition fuels stronger market expansion.

Innovation Drivers and Technological Advancements

With more than 70% of competitors prioritizing R&D, the push for innovation and technological advancements defines market competition. Developments in bio-based adhesives and improved formulations are driving growth. Strategic partnerships with research institutes accelerate product upgrades. Companies focusing on low-emission strategies are expected to gain momentum as sustainable solutions remain a key differentiator.

Regional Momentum and Expansion

Approximately 60% of industry expansion is concentrated in high-demand regions, where manufacturers invest in local facilities and partnerships. Regional strategies are tailored to meet regulatory standards and rising awareness of eco-friendly products. Market players actively pursue collaboration to strengthen their supply chains, while growth is reinforced through strategic presence in emerging regions.

Future Outlook

Looking ahead, nearly 75% of the market’s direction will be influenced by technological advancements, evolving strategies, and sustainable innovation. Partnerships and collaboration will remain central to industry growth as companies focus on reducing environmental impact. Continued expansion into new regions and investments in advanced formulations are expected to shape a competitive and resilient landscape.

Key players in Low Voc Adhesive Market include:

• Henkel AG
• 3M
• H.B. Fuller
• Sika AG
• Bostik (Arkema)
• AkzoNobel
• Ashland Global Holdings
• Dow
• PPG Industries
• LORD Corporation
• Wacker Chemie
• Franklin International
• Avery Dennison
• Dymax Corporation
• Permabond LLC

In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:

• Company Overview and Product Portfolio
• Market Share Analysis
• Key Developments
• Financial Overview
• Strategies
• Company SWOT Analysis