Table of Contents
Overview
New York, NY – Dec 26, 2025 – The global polyurethane (PU) adhesives market is set for steady expansion over the next decade. Market value is projected to rise from USD 8.4 billion in 2024 to around USD 15.3 billion by 2034, reflecting a 6.2% CAGR between 2025 and 2034. In 2024, Asia Pacific emerged as the clear leader, accounting for over 45.1% of global demand and generating approximately USD 3.7 billion in revenue. This dominance is supported by the region’s large manufacturing base, rapid urbanization, and strong activity in automotive, construction, and electronics.
PU adhesives are widely chosen for their ability to deliver strong yet flexible bonds across a broad range of substrates, including metals, plastics, compo sites, glass, wood, and foams. Their performance advantages—such as moisture curing, vibration damping, and compatibility with lightweight materials—make them essential in automotive assembly, building and construction, appliances, wind energy, footwear, and electronics manufacturing. During 2024–2025, industrial conditions have been favorable, with consistent demand coming from vehicles, infrastructure development, and clean-energy projects, all of which rely on structural and elastic bonding solutions.
Automotive electrification remains a key growth engine. According to the International Energy Agency, global electric-car sales surpassed 17 million units in 2024, representing more than 20% of total vehicle sales worldwide. This shift is boosting demand for PU adhesives in battery pack sealing, module bonding, and multi-material body structures designed to reduce vehicle weight. China alone recorded over 11 million electric-car sales in 2024, reinforcing Asia Pacific’s central role. At the same time, overall vehicle production volumes tracked by the OICA continue to underpin baseline adhesive demand for body-in-white assembly and noise-vibration-harshness applications.
In construction, PU adhesives benefit from both new builds and renovation activity. In the United States, put-in-place construction spending reached a USD 2.14 trillion seasonally adjusted annual rate in July 2025, supporting steady use of adhesives in flooring, panel lamination, façades, and window systems. Europe adds a strong policy-driven push through the EU Renovation Wave, which targets the renovation of 35 million buildings by 2030 and aims to double annual energy-renovation rates—applications that often specify low-VOC, high-performance PU chemistries.
Clean-energy expansion provides an additional long-term pillar. The IRENA reported a record 585 GW of renewable capacity added globally in 2024, bringing total installed renewables to roughly 4,448 GW, or about 46% of global power capacity. Wind energy alone added 117 GW in the same year, sustaining demand for PU adhesives in turbine blades, nacelles, towers, and fatigue-resistant structural joints. Together, these trends position polyurethane adhesives for durable, multi-sector growth through the next decade.
The Top Key Players Quick Navigation
- 3M Company
- Dow Inc.
- BASF SE
- Henkel AG & Co. KGaA
- H.B. Fuller Company
- Sika AG
- Huntsman Corporation
- Arkema S.A.
- Others
3M Company
Company Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Establishment Year | 1902 |
| Headquarters | St. Paul, Minnesota, United States |
| Key Management | William (Bill) Brown (Chairman & CEO) |
| Revenue | ~US$ 32.7 Billion (FY2024) |
| Headcount | ~92,000 employees (2024) |
| Website |
About 3M Company
3M Company is a diversified global science and technology leader with operations spanning industrial manufacturing, safety, healthcare, electronics, consumer goods, and advanced materials. Founded in 1902, the company has built its reputation on strong materials science, surface engineering, adhesives, films, coatings, and polymer technologies. In 2024, 3M reported revenue of approximately US$ 32.7 billion, supported by demand across its Industrial, Safety & Industrial, Electronics, Transportation, and Consumer segments.
Although 3M is not directly involved in 4D printing, it plays a critical enabling role in advanced manufacturing ecosystems. Its high-performance polymers, nonwoven materials, specialty films, adhesives, and composite reinforcements are widely used in technical textiles, electronics, automotive components, aerospace systems, medical devices, and functional industrial materials. These capabilities align closely with evolving needs for durability, adaptability, and performance in next-generation manufacturing.
Geographical Presence
3M operates in more than 70 countries, with manufacturing facilities, R&D centers, and sales offices across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa. Major markets include the United States, China, Germany, Japan, India, South Korea, Mexico, and Brazil. This global footprint enables 3M to serve a wide range of industries, including automotive, construction, electronics, healthcare, energy, and consumer goods, while maintaining localized production and innovation capabilities.
Recent Developments (2024–2025)
In 2024, 3M continued its strategic transformation by streamlining its portfolio and improving operational efficiency. The company strengthened its focus on core growth platforms such as industrial adhesives, filtration solutions, advanced materials, and electronics components. 3M also advanced its sustainability commitments, reporting progress toward its goals of carbon neutrality, water stewardship, and waste reduction, while investing in safer and more sustainable product formulations.
In 2025, 3M is progressing with the planned spin-off of its healthcare business (Solventum), allowing the company to concentrate more fully on industrial and materials-science-driven segments. Ongoing investments are being directed toward advanced materials for electronics, electric vehicles, renewable energy systems, and industrial automation. The company is also expanding digital manufacturing, automation, and R&D programs aimed at delivering higher-performance, lower-environmental-impact solutions across its global operations.
Dow Inc.
Company Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Establishment Year | 2019 (as an independent company following separation from DowDuPont) |
| Headquarters | Midland, Michigan, United States |
| Key Management | Jim Fitterling (Chairman & CEO) |
| Revenue | ~US$ 44.6 Billion (FY2024) |
| Headcount | ~36,000 employees (2024) |
| Website | https://www.dow.com/ |
xAbout Dow Inc.
Dow Inc. is one of the world’s leading materials science companies, focused on delivering innovative and sustainable solutions across plastics, industrial intermediates, coatings, silicones, and performance materials. Since becoming an independent entity in 2019, Dow has sharpened its focus on high-volume, technology-driven materials that serve industries such as packaging, infrastructure, automotive, consumer goods, electronics, and energy. In 2024, the company generated approximately US$ 44.6 billion in revenue, supported by its three core operating segments: Packaging & Specialty Plastics, Industrial Intermediates & Infrastructure, and Performance Materials & Coatings.
While Dow is not directly involved in 4D printing, it plays a critical enabling role in advanced materials ecosystems. Its portfolio of polyethylene resins, elastomers, silicones, adhesives, and specialty polymers supports technical textiles, lightweight automotive components, flexible packaging, composites, and functional industrial materials, aligning with next-generation manufacturing trends that demand durability, adaptability, and performance.
Geographical Presence
Dow operates a truly global manufacturing and innovation network, with facilities and commercial operations across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa. Key countries include the United States, Canada, Germany, the Netherlands, China, India, South Korea, Brazil, and Saudi Arabia. With more than 100 manufacturing sites worldwide, Dow’s geographic scale allows it to efficiently serve global customers while maintaining localized production, supply-chain resilience, and regulatory compliance across diverse markets.
Recent Developments (2024–2025)
In 2024, Dow focused on cost discipline, portfolio optimization, and sustainability-driven innovation amid a challenging macroeconomic environment. The company advanced multiple decarbonization initiatives, including investments in circular plastics, mechanical and chemical recycling partnerships, and lower-emission manufacturing technologies. Dow also announced progress toward its goal of transforming plastic waste and alternative feedstocks into 3 million metric tons of circular and renewable solutions annually by 2030. Operational efficiency programs helped protect margins despite softer demand in some end markets.
In 2025, Dow is accelerating investments in high-value specialty plastics, silicones, and performance materials targeted at packaging sustainability, electric vehicles, infrastructure durability, and consumer applications. The company continues to scale advanced recycling and circular economy projects in North America and Europe, while also expanding capacity for low-carbon materials. Strategic capital allocation in 2025 is focused on improving cash flow resilience, strengthening balance-sheet flexibility, and advancing long-term climate and circularity commitments.
BASF SE
Company Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Establishment Year | 1865 |
| Headquarters | Ludwigshafen, Germany |
| Key Management | Martin Brudermüller (Chairman & CEO) (transition to new CEO in 2024–2025 period) |
| Revenue | ~€68.9 Billion (~US$ 74–75 Billion) (FY2024) |
| Headcount | ~112,000 employees (2024) |
| Website | https://www.basf.com/ |
About BASF SE
BASF SE is the world’s largest integrated chemical company, operating across the entire chemical value chain—from basic chemicals and intermediates to high‑performance materials and solutions. Founded in 1865, BASF serves a wide range of industries including automotive, construction, packaging, agriculture, electronics, textiles, energy, and consumer goods. In 2024, BASF generated approximately €68.9 billion in revenue, supported by its diversified business model and global customer base.
While BASF is not directly involved in 4D printing, it plays a critical enabling role in advanced materials development. Its portfolio of engineering plastics, performance polymers, additives, fibers, coatings, and chemical intermediates supports technical textiles, lightweight composites, automotive fabrics, and functional materials, aligning closely with next‑generation manufacturing trends that demand durability, adaptability, and high performance.
Geographical Presence
BASF operates one of the most extensive global production and innovation networks in the chemical industry, with facilities in more than 80 countries. Key regions include Europe, North America, Asia Pacific, South America, and the Middle East & Africa. Major markets such as Germany, China, the United States, India, Brazil, and Belgium host large integrated production sites and R&D centers. This global footprint allows BASF to efficiently serve customers in textiles, automotive, construction, electronics, agriculture, and industrial manufacturing, while maintaining supply‑chain resilience and regional customization.
Recent Developments (2024–2025)
In 2024, BASF continued its portfolio optimization and cost‑reduction program, including restructuring measures at its Ludwigshafen site to improve long‑term competitiveness. The company increased focus on core chemical and materials businesses, while investing in sustainable product lines, including low‑carbon chemicals, circular polymers, and bio‑based solutions. BASF also expanded capacity in engineering plastics and performance materials used in automotive, electronics, and industrial applications, supporting demand for lightweight and durable components.
In 2025, BASF is advancing its “Winning Ways” strategy, emphasizing profitability, cash‑flow discipline, and sustainability‑driven innovation. Ongoing investments target battery materials, specialty polymers, advanced additives, and textile chemicals, including solutions that improve energy efficiency, recyclability, and product lifespan. BASF continues to progress toward its climate goals, including reducing Scope 1 and 2 CO₂ emissions by 25% by 2030, while expanding partnerships in circular economy and low‑carbon manufacturing technologies.
H.B. Fuller Company
Company Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Establishment Year | 1887 |
| Headquarters | St. Paul, Minnesota, United States |
| Key Management | Celeste Mastin (President & CEO) |
| Revenue | ~US$ 3.6–3.7 Billion (FY2024) |
| Headcount | ~7,300 employees (2024) |
| Website | https://www.hbfuller.com/ |
About H.B. Fuller Company
H.B. Fuller is a global leader in adhesives, sealants, and specialty chemical solutions, with a history spanning more than 135 years. The company focuses on developing high‑performance bonding, coating, and sealing technologies used across packaging, construction, hygiene, electronics, automotive, footwear, textiles, and industrial manufacturing. In 2024, H.B. Fuller generated approximately US$ 3.6–3.7 billion in revenue, supported by steady demand from packaging, hygiene, and engineered materials applications.
Although H.B. Fuller is not directly involved in 4D printing, its advanced adhesive chemistries and functional bonding systems play an enabling role in technical textiles, composites, automotive interiors, lightweight assemblies, and functional materials, supporting manufacturing trends that require durability, flexibility, and material integration.
Geographical Presence
H.B. Fuller operates a strong global footprint with manufacturing plants, innovation centers, and commercial offices across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa. Key markets include the United States, Germany, the United Kingdom, China, India, Brazil, and Mexico. This international network allows the company to serve multinational customers while offering localized technical support and supply reliability across diverse end‑use industries.
Recent Developments (2024–2025)
In 2024, H.B. Fuller focused on portfolio optimization and margin improvement, driven by pricing discipline, operational efficiency initiatives, and continued demand in packaging and hygiene adhesives. The company expanded its sustainable adhesive solutions, including products designed for recyclable and lightweight packaging, aligning with brand owners’ circular‑economy goals. Investments were also made in R&D and digital manufacturing capabilities to accelerate product development and customer collaboration.
In 2025, H.B. Fuller is advancing growth in engineered adhesives for construction, electronics, and transportation, while continuing to scale low‑VOC, bio‑based, and recyclable‑friendly adhesive technologies. The company is also strengthening its presence in Asia Pacific and Latin America, targeting faster‑growing industrial and consumer markets. Sustainability remains a strategic priority, with ongoing efforts to reduce Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions, improve energy efficiency at manufacturing sites, and expand its portfolio of environmentally responsible bonding solutions.
Sika AG
Company Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Establishment Year | 1910 |
| Headquarters | Baar, Switzerland |
| Key Management | Thomas Hasler (CEO) |
| Revenue | CHF 11.76 billion (~US$ 12–13 billion) (2024) |
| Headcount | ~34,476 employees (2024) |
| Website | https://www.sika.com/ |
About Sika AG
Sika AG is a Swiss multinational specialty chemicals company founded in 1910, headquartered in Baar, Switzerland. It develops and manufactures systems and products used for bonding, sealing, damping, reinforcing, and protecting in the construction, industrial manufacturing, automotive, and infrastructure sectors. The company serves markets worldwide with a broad portfolio that includes concrete admixtures, sealants, adhesives, waterproofing solutions, roofing and flooring systems, and mortar products. Sika’s solutions are widely used to strengthen structures, enhance durability, and improve performance in both commercial and residential applications.
In 2024, Sika achieved record sales of CHF 11.76 billion, representing a ~7.4 % growth in local currencies, supported by organic growth and strategic acquisitions, and expanded its EBITDA to CHF 2.27 billion with a 19.3 % margin. These results reflect the company’s robust performance across global markets despite challenging macroeconomic conditions.
Geographical Presence
Sika’s global footprint spans 103+ countries through subsidiaries and a network of more than 400 manufacturing facilities, enabling localized production and service delivery. It serves customers across Europe, the Americas, Asia Pacific, the Middle East, and Africa, supporting key infrastructure, construction, industrial manufacturing, and automotive markets worldwide. With over 34,000 employees, Sika is positioned to offer tailored solutions that improve infrastructure resilience and industrial performance in diverse regional markets.
Recent Developments (2024–2025)
In 2024, Sika posted a record revenue of CHF 11.76 billion, up approximately 4.7 % year‑over‑year in Swiss francs and 7.4 % in local currencies, driven by organic growth and acquisitions such as Kwik Bond (USA), Vinaldom (Dominican Republic), and Chema (Peru). The company also commissioned new production plants in Peru, China, and Indonesia to strengthen its global supply network. Sika’s EBITDA rose 11 % to CHF 2.27 billion, and net profit increased by 17.4 % to CHF 1.25 billion on improved operating efficiency.
In 2025, Sika is targeting further expansion and profitability with expectations of 3–6 % sales growth in local currencies and a slight rise in EBITDA margin toward 19.5 %‑19.8 %. The company completed the acquisition of Awazil Al Khaleej Industrial Co. (Gulf Seal) to strengthen its presence in the Middle East construction market, and other strategic bolt‑on acquisitions such as Marlon Tørmørtel (Denmark) to broaden its regional product offerings. Sika continues to implement its “Fast Forward” program, which includes investments and efficiency measures to enhance operational excellence and drive long‑term sustainable growth.
Arkema S.A. – Company Overview
Arkema S.A. is a global specialty chemicals and advanced materials company with a strong focus on high-performance polymers, specialty resins, and functional additives. Founded in 2004 and headquartered in La Défense, Paris, France, Arkema has built a differentiated portfolio serving construction, automotive, aerospace, electronics, packaging, renewable energy, and consumer goods industries. Its materials are widely used where lightweighting, durability, chemical resistance, and sustainability performance are critical.
In 2023–2024, Arkema generated revenues of approximately USD 9.4–9.9 billion, supported by a global workforce of around 21,000 employees. The company operates 150+ industrial sites and R&D centers across 55+ countries, giving it a strong global manufacturing and innovation footprint. Although Arkema is not directly active in 4D printing, its advanced polymers, bio-based materials, and high-performance resins are key enablers for smart materials, adaptive structures, and next-generation manufacturing technologies.
Arkema’s long-term strategy is centered on becoming a pure-play specialty materials leader, with strong emphasis on sustainability, bio-based chemistry, and low-carbon material solutions, aligning closely with evolving global regulations and customer ESG targets.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Establishment Year | 2004 |
| Headquarters | La Défense, Paris, France |
| Key Management | Thierry Le Hénaff (Chairman & CEO) |
| Revenue | ~USD 9.4–9.9 Billion (2023–2024 est.) |
| Headcount | ~21,000 employees (2024) |
| Website | https://www.arkema.com |
| Core Businesses | Advanced Materials, Specialty Polymers, Adhesives, Functional Additives |
| Global Presence | Operations in 55+ countries, 150+ sites |
Recent Developments
- Expanded bio-based and low-carbon polymer capacity, particularly for specialty polyamides and sustainable adhesive solutions.
- Increased investments in advanced materials for electric vehicles and renewable energy, including battery components and wind-energy composites.
- Strengthened sustainability roadmap, focusing on reduced carbon intensity, circular polymers, and higher renewable feedstock usage.
- Continued portfolio shift toward high-margin specialty materials, reducing exposure to commoditized chemical segments.
- Scaled recyclable, fluorine-free, and bio-attributed material platforms to meet tightening global environmental regulations.
- Advanced digitalization and process efficiency initiatives across manufacturing sites to improve cost control and operational resilience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, polyurethane (PU) adhesives stand out today as one of the most versatile and reliable bonding solutions across many industries because they combine strong, long-lasting adhesion with flexibility and resistance to weather, chemicals, and stress. These adhesives can bond all kinds of materials—metals, plastics, wood, glass, and composites—making them suitable for demanding environments where simple tapes or mechanical fasteners would fail. Because of these strengths, PU adhesives are widely used in construction, automotive assembly, furniture and wood products, and even packaging industries where durability and performance matter most.
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