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Author: James Clarke

The standards and science behind biodegradable hot melt adhesives

Written by James Clarke on . Posted in Business Advantage. No Comments on The standards and science behind biodegradable hot melt adhesives

Across packaging and manufacturing, sustainability choices are increasingly scrutinised. Adhesives are often a small proportion of a pack by weight, yet they can influence recyclability and compostability outcomes. For converters and brands seeking credible, demonstrable improvements, understanding what “biodegradable” means in practice is essential.

Power Adhesives created the world’s first ever biodegradable hot melt range, and this post explains the technical basis behind certified compostable adhesives and the specific attributes customers can verify.

What certification actually proves

The most important tests for compostable materials are independent certification standards. Two widely recognised standards are EN 13432 in Europe and ASTM D6400 in the United States.

EN 13432 sets laboratory criteria for industrial compostability. Key elements include biodegradation (a high proportion of the material must be converted to carbon dioxide under controlled composting conditions within a defined timeframe), disintegration (no visible fragments above a small size after a set period) and ecotoxicity (the compost produced must not inhibit plant growth). ASTM D6400 uses similar test principles tailored to US industrial composting conditions.

Our Tecbond biodegradable adhesives are certified to EN 13432 and ASTM D6400. Those certifications are the primary independent evidence that these adhesives meet the specified compostability test protocols under controlled industrial conditions.

What certified biodegradable adhesives are designed to do

A product certified to EN 13432 or ASTM D6400 has been independently tested against the lab methods in those standards. For converters this means:

  • The adhesive has undergone biodegradation and disintegration testing under controlled composting conditions.
  • The certification process includes checks for harmful residues and ecotoxicity impacts on plant growth.
  • Certification is granted by an accredited third-party following laboratory assessment and, where required, ongoing surveillance.

It is important to be clear about limits. These standards apply to industrial composting environments. They do not mean that a product will rapidly biodegrade in a backyard compost heap or in all natural environments. Certification verifies behaviour under defined, managed conditions typical of industrial composting facilities.

Performance in use and storage

Customers commonly ask whether biodegradable adhesives perform like conventional hot melts during production and whether they will remain stable in storage. Power Adhesives publishes a recommended shelf life of 24 months (from date of manufacture) for its biodegradable shaped adhesives when stored correctly away from direct sunlight, heat and moisture. That shelf-life statement is a practical specification customers can rely on for planning and logistics.

Certified biodegradable adhesives are intended to provide predictable application behaviour during their service life and then meet compostability criteria at end of life when processed under industrial composting conditions. Where customers require detailed performance metrics (open time, set speed, bond strength on specific substrates), technical data sheets and application trials remain the appropriate way to confirm suitability for a given production line.

Where biodegradable adhesives fit in a packaging strategy

From a compliance perspective, adhesives are increasingly relevant. For packs intended for industrial composting, any component that must be tested as part of a compostability claim should be backed by appropriate certification and documentation. Certified biodegradable adhesives provide a traceable route to support those claims.

That said, using a certified compostable adhesive is only one part of a broader material strategy. Converters should ensure the entire pack design, including substrates, inks and coatings, aligns with the chosen end-of-life pathway and that collection and processing routes exist for industrial composting in the target market.

Practical next steps for converters

If you are evaluating biodegradable adhesives for your line:

  • Request certification documents (EN 13432, ASTM D6400) and technical data sheets from the supplier.
  • Run application trials on your substrates and equipment to confirm bond performance and handling.
  • Confirm recommended storage conditions and shelf life for ordering and inventory planning.
  • Consider the end-of-life pathway for the full pack and whether industrial composting infrastructure exists where your product will be collected.

Evidence-led innovation

The role of adhesives in sustainable packaging is becoming more visible because independent standards exist to verify compostability. Power Adhesives’ published certifications for its Tecbond biodegradable range give converters a starting point to assess whether a certified adhesive can form part of a compliant packaging solution. For technical assurance, converters should combine certification review with practical trials and documentation checks to ensure performance and compliance on their specific production lines.

The role of sprayable hot melt adhesives in pallet stabilisation

Written by James Clarke on . Posted in Business Advantage. No Comments on The role of sprayable hot melt adhesives in pallet stabilisation

From manufacturing lines to warehouse logistics, poorly secured loads risk product damage, material waste, and potentially costly delays. Traditional stabilisation methods such as stretch wrap, shrink film, and corner boards are effective to a point, but they also add plastic waste, increase handling time, and create inefficiencies.

Sprayable hot melt adhesives present a cleaner, faster, and more adaptable solution. Power Adhesives’ Tecbond sprayable range has been engineered specifically for high-volume industrial use, helping factories secure pallet loads quickly and reliably while maintaining efficiency on the line.

How sprayable adhesives work

Sprayable hot melt adhesives are applied as a fine web or spiral pattern across each pallet layer. Once applied, the adhesive cools within seconds, creating a light, tacky bond between stacked products such as boxes, cartons, or sacks. This temporary grip helps prevent slippage and load shifting during storage or transport, without permanently bonding the materials together.

Because the adhesive is applied sparingly and only where needed, packs can still be easily separated at their destination and the residual adhesive peeled off. This makes sprayable hot melts ideal for use in sectors such as food and beverage, e-commerce, and consumer goods, where stable transit and clean presentation are equally important.

Reducing waste and improving efficiency

Unlike mechanical methods such as stretch wrapping or shrink films, sprayable adhesives provide immediate hold with no additional materials or drying time required. This can help reduce reliance on single-use plastics and lower the volume of waste leaving a site.

The overall reduction in wrapping materials will vary depending on the application, but many users report significant improvements in packing speed and stability. Because the adhesive sets almost instantly, it supports high-throughput operations and helps to keep palletising systems running continuously.

The clean-running nature of Tecbond sprayable adhesives also helps to reduce maintenance requirements. There is minimal stringing or residue build-up in the applicator, meaning less downtime for cleaning and fewer unplanned stoppages.

Designed for versatility and control

Power Adhesives’ sprayable hot melts, including Tecbond 440, are formulated to deliver a balance of tack and release, providing secure yet removable bonds. The adhesives can be applied using standard pneumatic or bulk hot melt spray systems, allowing precise control over coverage and adhesion strength.

This flexibility makes them suitable for a wide range of substrates, from corrugated cardboard and paperboard to coated cartons, polyethylene, and shrink films. The result is a versatile adhesive solution that can adapt to different product weights, surface finishes, and transport conditions.

Supporting sustainability goals

With growing pressure to reduce packaging waste, every small change can make a difference. Sprayable hot melts can play a part in these efforts by helping companies minimise secondary packaging materials and streamline their overall stabilisation process.

While sustainability outcomes will depend on the wider packaging setup, reducing plastic film usage and avoiding over-wrapping can contribute to more efficient, lower-impact logistics operations. Combined with recyclable packaging and efficient pallet layouts, sprayable adhesives support a more resource-conscious approach to pallet management.

Why clean-running adhesives matter

The performance of any pallet-stabilising adhesive depends on consistency. Clean-running products like those in the Tecbond range ensure smooth operation through spray systems without clogging. This reliability helps maintain uptime and ensures the adhesive performs the same way from the first pallet to the last. By reducing cleaning intervals and avoiding build-up, these adhesives also help extend the life of application equipment, supporting lower maintenance costs and longer-term efficiency gains.

Pallet stabilisation might be one of the final steps in the production process, but it can have a major impact on cost, safety, and sustainability performance. Sprayable hot melt adhesives such as Tecbond 410 provide a practical alternative to film-based systems, helping manufacturers and logistics teams maintain stable loads, minimise waste, and keep operations moving efficiently.

When pallet stability and productivity are equally important, clean-running sprayable hot melts offer a smart, proven solution that supports both goals, and keeps your pallets secure from line to loading bay.

 

Understanding the 1% rule and why compostable adhesives matter under PPWR

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The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) is raising the bar for compostable packaging across Europe. Among its technical requirements, one small but critical detail stands out for adhesives. This is the “1% rule” as defined in EN 13432. This rule may sound like a minor detail, but for converters aiming to certify compostable packaging, it can make the difference between a valid claim and a rejected application.

What the 1% rule means

Under EN 13432, any single packaging component that makes up more than 1% of the pack’s dry weight must be individually proven compostable. Adhesives are included in this definition.

That means if an adhesive contributes more than 1% of the total dry weight, it cannot simply be ignored in testing. It must meet the same standards of biodegradation, disintegration, and safety as the rest of the pack.

The rule also states that the sum of all non-compostable components in a pack cannot exceed 5% of its weight. This means adhesives below the 1% threshold still matter. If combined with other non-compostable elements (such as inks, coatings, or barriers), they could push a pack over the 5% allowance and invalidate the claim.

Why adhesives often cross the threshold

Although adhesives are often perceived as negligible, their contribution to overall pack weight is not always minor. Industry data shows that adhesives typically account for less than 2% of total packaging weight, but in more complex formats, such as laminated cartons, wraparound trays, or fibre-based packs with plastic windows, that figure can rise much higher. In fact, some reports note that in certain applications adhesives can contribute up to 5% of total pack weight.

Once adhesive content exceeds 1% of the pack’s dry weight, EN 13432 requires the adhesive itself to be certified as compostable. Without that certification, even an otherwise compostable pack risks failing compliance.

What EN 13432 requires of adhesives

For adhesives to comply with EN 13432, they must:

  • Biodegrade by at least 90% within six months under industrial composting conditions (~58°C, with regulated oxygen and moisture)
  • Disintegrate into pieces smaller than 2mm within 12 weeks
  • Leave no harmful residues, such as microplastics, heavy metals, or ecotoxic effects on plant growth

If adhesives cannot demonstrate this through independent certification, the packaging claim will fail.

The documentation converters need

Under PPWR and EPR schemes, claims must be backed up by evidence. For adhesives, this means:

  • EN 13432 or ASTM D6400 certification from accredited labs.
  • Technical data sheets outlining composition and application details.
  • Traceability documentation to prove consistent sourcing and performance.

Without this evidence, compostability claims risk being challenged by regulators, retailers, or NGOs (Non-Governmental Organisations).

Adhesives may once have been treated as a minor detail, but under the 1% rule they are front and centre in compostability compliance. For converters, this means adhesive choice is a strategic decision.

By selecting certified compostable hot melts, converters can not only meet regulatory requirements but also protect brand credibility, avoid compliance risks, and ensure packaging truly lives up to its sustainability promise.

The 1% rule makes it clear that adhesives are no longer just a background material in packaging. They can be the difference between compliance and rejection, between a credible sustainability claim and one that falls apart under scrutiny.

For converters, the safest path is to choose adhesives that are independently certified as compostable and supported with full documentation. Power Adhesives was the first to launch a certified biodegradable hot melt range and continues to expand it to meet the challenges of PPWR. By switching to proven solutions, converters can de-risk their packaging and demonstrate to customers and regulators alike that their sustainability claims are built on solid ground.

 

Explore Power Adhesives’ biodegradable hot melt range here.

Reducing downtime with bulk adhesives

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In any production environment, downtime is the enemy. Whether it’s in packaging, product assembly, or other high-volume manufacturing processes, every pause in production translates to lost efficiency, wasted costs, and missed deadlines. For many operations, adhesives are a quiet but crucial part of the system, and when adhesive supply is interrupted, the whole line can grind to a halt.

This is where bulk hot melt adhesives come into their own. By taking the step up from standard glue sticks or slugs to bulk formats, factories can reduce stoppages, improve line efficiency, and achieve a more consistent output, all while keeping costs under control.

Why downtime matters

Even short interruptions can add up to hours of lost production each week. Frequent refilling of small glue cartridges or sticks not only interrupts workflow but, on very busy lines, can also introduce opportunities for error and inconsistency. Adhesives are often treated as a minor detail in the production chain, but when the adhesive runs out, boxes cannot be sealed, products cannot be assembled, and deadlines cannot be met.

In high-output, automated environments, bulk systems minimise these risks. By switching to high-capacity adhesives supplied in larger formats, such as granules, pillows, or slats, operations teams can extend run times between refills and maintain steady adhesive delivery, while eliminating stoppages.

The benefits of bulk adhesives

  1. Reduced line interruptions

Bulk adhesives are supplied in large volumes that feed directly into compatible applicators and tank systems. This dramatically reduces the number of refill cycles required, keeping production moving and cutting downtime across shifts.

  1. Consistent application

With continuous, automated adhesive feed, bulk systems ensure a stable melt rate and uniform bond strength. That consistency reduces the risk of weak seals, rework, or rejects, giving production managers confidence that every pack or product leaving the line meets quality standards.

  1. Lower operational costs

Frequent stoppages on busy lines don’t just slow output, they drive up costs. Labour time spent changing slugs or clearing jams quickly adds up, which can cause problems if output targets are high. Bulk adhesives reduce those inefficiencies. And because they’re well suited to use with large machinery and automation, they can work out more cost-effective than shaped hot melts for larger operations.

  1. Flexibility and choice

Like shaped hot melts, bulk formats are available across a wide range of hot melt adhesives, including formulations for packaging, woodworking, product assembly, and specialist applications. This means factories can match the right bulk adhesive to their specific needs without compromising performance.

How to make the switch

Transitioning to bulk adhesives doesn’t need to be complicated. The first step is to review your current adhesive use and calculate how much downtime is caused by refills, stoppages, and reworks. This helps build a clear case for switching to bulk supply.

Next, consider whether your current application equipment is compatible with bulk systems. Many bulk adhesive formats can be fed into standard melters and applicators with minimal adjustment, while larger operations may benefit from dedicated bulk tanks designed to maximise efficiency.

Finally, work with an adhesive supplier who understands your production needs. At Power Adhesives, our Tecbond bulk adhesives are designed for high-volume applications and are available in a wide variety of formulations to suit different materials and operating conditions.

Our expert team can help you identify the most efficient option, whether your focus is speed, bond strength, safety, or sustainability.

Bulk adhesives and sustainability

Reducing downtime isn’t just about efficiency, it can also support sustainability goals. Getting the right hot melt technology in place can mean less wasted packaging and product material, while larger format adhesives reduce packaging waste from slugs or sticks.

When combined with Power Adhesives’ biodegradable hot melt range, bulk systems can help factories align operational efficiency with environmental responsibility.

Keep your lines running

Downtime is inevitable in manufacturing, but adhesives shouldn’t be the reason for it. By adopting bulk hot melt adhesives, factories can reduce interruptions, cut costs, and maintain consistent quality while supporting broader sustainability targets.

With over 50 years of expertise in hot melt technology, Power Adhesives supplies a wide range of Tecbond bulk adhesives designed to keep your production moving. Because when it comes to efficiency, every second counts.

Is your adhesive holding back your sustainability claims?

Written by James Clarke on . Posted in Technical Info. No Comments on Is your adhesive holding back your sustainability claims?

When brands make sustainability pledges, packaging is often the first place they look to demonstrate progress. Fibre-based cartons, compostable films, and recyclable trays all signal responsibility to consumers and regulators alike. Yet just one small component, the adhesives, can quietly undermine the whole effort.

Adhesives are rarely front of mind when it comes to packaging sustainability, but under the EU’s new Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), they are becoming a compliance-critical material. Even though they make up only a small fraction of the total pack weight, adhesives can determine whether packaging is truly recyclable or compostable, or whether claims collapse under scrutiny.

Why adhesives matter under PPWR

By 2030, all packaging placed on the EU market must be designed for recycling. By 2035, it must also be recyclable at scale, meaning it can be collected, sorted, and reprocessed in real-world conditions. Compostability rules are already tightening, with specific packaging formats (like tea bags, sticky labels, and lightweight bags) required to meet EN 13432 certification for industrial composting.

Adhesives directly affect both of these criteria. For example:

  • Recyclability: Conventional synthetic hot melt adhesives can, in some cases, clog pulping machinery, remain embedded in fibres, or contaminate recycled paper bales, leading to costly rejections.
  • Compostability: If the adhesive exceeds the thresholds set in EN 13432 and cannot biodegrade safely, it can invalidate the compostability claim of the entire pack, even if the substrate itself meets the standard.

This means adhesives are not just a “background material.” They are a make-or-break factor in regulatory compliance.

The EN 13432 benchmark

EN 13432 is the recognised European standard for packaging recoverable through industrial composting. It requires proof that every component of a pack, including adhesives, biodegrades within six months, disintegrates within 12 weeks, and leaves no harmful residues such as microplastics or heavy metals.

For converters, failing to consider adhesive compliance introduces risk. A single non-certified adhesive could mean a compostability claim doesn’t stand up to verification, potentially leaving brands exposed to accusations of greenwashing or non-compliance penalties.

The risk of hidden components

Packaging developers often assume that because adhesives are only a small part of the overall structure, they fall outside regulatory scope. But under PPWR, every component counts. In fact, studies have shown that adhesives can contribute up to 5% of pack weight in some laminated formats, well above thresholds that require independent certification.

The reality is that adhesive selection can determine whether a pack clears compliance checks or fails them.

De-risking your packaging strategy

The good news is that adhesive choice doesn’t have to hold sustainability claims back. Certified biodegradable hot melt adhesives now exist that can deliver the bond strength, fast set times, and line efficiency converters need, all without compromising on recyclability or compostability.

Working with suppliers who can provide certification, technical data, and guidance is essential. PPWR is clear. It’s not enough for packaging to be theoretically recyclable or compostable; it must be proven. Adhesives are part of that proof.

Sustainability claims are only as strong as their weakest link. For packaging under PPWR, adhesives can either undermine compliance or enable it. By choosing certified solutions and demanding the right documentation, converters can ensure their adhesives strengthen sustainability credentials rather than compromise them.

Busting the myths: What you need to know about biodegradable hot melt adhesives

Written by James Clarke on . Posted in Technical Info. No Comments on Busting the myths: What you need to know about biodegradable hot melt adhesives

We understand that adhesives are often the last thing people consider, yet they can make or break recyclability and compostability claims. With the EU’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes placing more scrutiny on every packaging component, questions about biodegradable adhesives are increasing.

Here at Power Adhesives, we hear them all. From concerns over shelf life, to fears of adhesives failing during use, to doubts about whether biodegradable really means what it says. It is time to set the record straight.

Myth 1: “Biodegradable adhesives will break down on the shelf”

One of the most common misconceptions is that biodegradable hot melts begin degrading as soon as they are manufactured or applied. This is not the case. Biodegradable adhesives from Power Adhesives have a recommended shelf life of 24 months from the date of manufacture.

When stored correctly, away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture, their performance is identical to a standard hot melt adhesive. Biodegradation only begins when the adhesive is exposed to the right environmental conditions, such as oxygen, UV light, and heat. Until then, the adhesive remains stable and delivers strong, consistent bonds throughout its working life.

How do we know this? We use it ourselves on packs that leave our warehouse.

Myth 2: “There’s no benefit to switching if my current adhesive works”

If an adhesive is non-biodegradable, it can compromise an entire sustainability strategy. Under EN 13432, any component that makes up more than 1% of the dry weight of a compostable pack must itself be compostable, and adhesives are often the component that pushes packaging over this threshold.

Even where adhesives are below 1%, they still count towards the overall 5% maximum allowance for non-compostable content. This means a conventional hot melt could invalidate a compostability claim, creating compliance risks and potentially forcing costly redesigns.

Switching to certified biodegradable adhesives ensures that packaging claims hold up under both regulatory and customer scrutiny. The benefits go beyond operations and extend to brand reputation, protecting credibility at a time when sustainability is a central focus for businesses and consumers alike.

Myth 3: “Biodegradable adhesives will weaken and cause packs to fail”

Another misconception is that if an adhesive can biodegrade, it must be weaker or less reliable than traditional hot melts. In reality, sustainability and performance go hand in hand.

Biodegradable hot melts from Power Adhesives are designed to deliver fast set times, strong bonds, and clean application, exactly what converters and brand owners expect. The breakdown process only begins once packaging enters the right conditions, such as an industrial composting facility.

Independent testing to EN 13432 and ASTM D6400 proves that our biodegradable adhesives maintain strength during use, then degrade fully into water, CO₂, and non-harmful material at end of life, without leaving microplastics behind.

Myth 4: “Biodegradable means untested or unproven”

Some assume that biodegradable products are new and untested. The opposite is true.

Power Adhesives’ biodegradable range has undergone rigorous certification, including:

  • EN 13432: the European compostability standard, which tests biodegradation, disintegration, and eco-toxicity.
  • ASTM D6400: the US equivalent, confirming performance in industrial composting.
  • ASTM D6954: showing that under natural conditions, polymers break down to the point that they can be consumed by microorganisms.

This level of testing ensures that biodegradable adhesives do not just disappear, but break down safely, leaving no harmful residues or microplastics.

Looking ahead: myth-free sustainability

As sustainability standards continue to tighten, adhesives will no longer be overlooked. Though they are a small part of packaging by weight, they carry a significant influence in determining whether recyclability or compostability requirements are met.

By addressing the myths, it is clear that biodegradable hot melt adhesives do not compromise performance, do not degrade on the shelf, and do not leave microplastics behind. Instead, they give converters and brand owners confidence that their packaging complies with regulation and meets consumer expectations.

Power Adhesives is proud to have launched the world’s first certified biodegradable hot melt adhesive and has since expanded the range with additional products to offer more choice and flexibility. This is only the beginning, with further innovations in development to help brands meet the challenges of tomorrow.

When it comes to adhesives, sustainability is no longer optional. It is essential.

Speak to our team to find out more.

Faster and cleaner bonding with Tecbond 440, sprayable hot melt

Written by James Clarke on . Posted in Business Advantage. No Comments on Faster and cleaner bonding with Tecbond 440, sprayable hot melt

Sprayable hot melt adhesives have become a game-changer for industries that need fast, consistent coverage over large surface areas without compromising bond quality. Now, with the relaunch of Power Adhesives’ sprayable hot melt range, we’re introducing a new addition, Tecbond 440.

Designed to meet the needs of packaging professionals and assembly teams across a variety of sectors, Tecbond 440 offers the perfect balance of open time, flexibility, and high-quality adhesion, making it ideal for complex or irregular applications.

The relaunch of our sprayable range reflects years of customer feedback, product development, and application testing. It’s about giving professionals the tools they need to work more efficiently while improving quality control, reducing waste, and enhancing safety. Tecbond 440 now joins this lineup as a versatile, high-performance option for those working with materials such as fabrics, foam, wood, and many plastics.

Why sprayable hot melts matter

Traditional bead application is perfect for linear bonds and smaller surface areas, but it’s not always the best fit for projects that require even adhesive coverage over wide or irregular shapes. That’s where sprayable hot melts come into their own. They spiralise the molten adhesive using compressed air, creating an adjustable spray pattern that can be applied quickly and evenly, without the excess weight or waste that comes from over-application.

This means a faster, more ergonomic process that improves workflow and reduces operator fatigue. It can also mean less downtime and fewer callbacks due to uneven bonding or weak spots. And for those working in sectors like upholstery, packaging, insulation, or product assembly, it means consistently high-quality finishes on every job.

What sets Tecbond 440 apart

Tecbond 440 is a synthetic polymer-based hot melt designed specifically for spray application, with a long open time that gives operators the flexibility to align, position, or adjust materials before the materials are fully compressed. This is especially valuable for complex assemblies where precision is just as important as speed.

Its formulation delivers strong, flexible bonds that withstand vibration, handling, and changes in temperature, essential for products and installations that need to perform over time. The adhesive is particularly effective on:

  • Foam and fabrics – ideal for upholstery, acoustic panels, and insulation systems
  • Wood and composites – suitable for decorative panelling, exhibition builds, and point-of-sale displays
  • Certain plastics – including materials used in automotive interiors, consumer goods, and packaging

With a softening point of 105°C, and a brittle point of 0°C, Tecbond 440 provides reliable performance in environments where temperature fluctuations could otherwise compromise adhesive integrity.

Efficiency and safety benefits

Like all hot melts in the Power Adhesives sprayable range, Tecbond 440 is 100% solid and solvent-free, producing no harmful VOCs and no hazardous propellants. This not only makes it safer for operators, but also supports a cleaner, healthier working environment.

Spray application also enables highly efficient adhesive use. Operators can control spray width and pattern to match the substrate, reducing overspray and keeping costs under control. Combined with Power Adhesives’ Tec 6300 and Tec 7300 spray guns, the process becomes both precise and repeatable, qualities that are vital in high-volume projects.

Part of a proven, relaunched sprayable range

The addition of Tecbond 440 marks another step in the evolution of Power Adhesives’ sprayable range. With the recent relaunch, we’ve ensured that every product in the lineup has been reviewed and optimised for today’s manufacturing and installation demands. Whether you need a long open time for complex assemblies, or faster setting for rapid throughput, our range is designed to offer the right solution without compromise.

Tecbond 440 fills an important gap for those who want a balance between speed and flexibility, enough time to adjust materials before compression, but not so long that productivity suffers. And like the rest of the range, it’s designed to integrate seamlessly with our applicator systems, ensuring consistency from the first trigger pull to the last.

Looking ahead

The expansion of our sprayable range, including Tecbond 440, is part of Power Adhesives’ ongoing commitment to innovation, performance, and customer-driven development. We’re proud to offer adhesive solutions that don’t just meet today’s needs but anticipate tomorrow’s challenges, whether that’s in efficiency, safety, or sustainability.

With Tecbond 440, installers and manufacturers can achieve the speed, precision, and bond quality they need for demanding large-area applications, without compromising on operator safety or production efficiency. It’s the smart choice for those who expect more from their adhesive.

Ready to explore our sprayable range? Contact our team for advice on selecting the right adhesive for your packaging and compliance needs.

Tecbond 280-PL – construction adhesive built for strength, precision, and speed

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In construction, speed, precision, and durability are everything. Whether it’s bonding insulation boards, securing decorative panels, or assembling prefabricated components, every element contributes to the overall success of a project. Yet adhesives are often treated as a last-minute choice, even despite being the very material that holds everything together.

The reality is simple. The wrong adhesive can slow a build, weaken the finish, and jeopardise performance in the long term.

Not all hot melt adhesives are created equal, and when reliability and flexibility are essential, you need a solution that’s purpose-built for the demands of modern construction. Tecbond 280-PL is just that. Formulated using advanced polyolefin chemistry, it has been designed to meet the challenges of working with today’s diverse construction materials. It offers exceptional adhesion to substrates like wood, MDF, foam, plastics, and insulation panels.

Where other adhesives force installers to work at the material’s pace, Tecbond 280-PL gives the user control. Its long open time allows for precise positioning, making it ideal for larger panels, intricate assemblies, or complex layouts that require adjustment before final bonding. Once set, it delivers strong, reliable bonds capable of withstanding the rigours of construction environments.

Backed by over five decades of Power Adhesives’ innovation and technical expertise, Tecbond 280-PL isn’t just another hot melt adhesive, it’s a high-performance construction partner. It’s designed for professionals who understand that a project’s quality depends on more than just visible finishes. It depends on the unseen bonds that ensure everything stays in place, day after day, year after year.

Engineered for construction performance

Tecbond 280-PL is a polyolefin-based hot melt adhesive with a high molten tack and strong adhesion across a wide range of porous and non-porous materials.

The long open time is particularly valuable in applications like wall panel installation, decorative timber cladding, or bonding insulation boards, where the substrate needs to be positioned carefully. Once solidified, the bond is durable, clean, and resistant to creep, ensuring components stay securely in place over the long term.

Unlike solvent-based adhesives, Tecbond 280-PL is 100% solid and solvent-free, which means no VOC emissions, safer handling, and compliance with indoor air quality requirements for sensitive environments such as schools, healthcare facilities, or offices.

Applications where Tecbond 280-PL excels

  • Bonding insulation boards – Ideal for attaching EPS, XPS, PIR, and foam panels to walls, ceilings, or floors without mechanical fixings that can cause cold bridging.
  • Fixing wall panels and cladding – Provides a clean, hidden bond that eliminates the need for visible nails or screws, enhancing the final aesthetic.
  • Fitting trims, skirting boards, and mouldings – Allows for rapid installation with minimal finishing work.
  • Prefabricated assemblies – Speeds up production by allowing fast, strong, and precise bonding of components before they are transported to site.

In all these applications, the adhesive’s flexibility ensures it performs well even in environments that experience expansion, contraction, or vibration.

Saving time without sacrificing quality

In construction, every minute saved can make a difference to deadlines and costs. Tecbond 280-PL allows installers to work quickly and confidently, reducing downtime compared to traditional mechanical fixings or slow-curing adhesives. Its high molten tack means materials grip instantly, while the long open time ensures you can still make adjustments before final bonding.

The result is a streamlined workflow that maintains both speed and precision – a balance that’s difficult to achieve with other adhesive systems.

A sustainably led choice for modern building

While Tecbond 280-PL is built for performance first, it also supports the industry’s move towards safer, cleaner building practices. Being solvent-free and low-emission, it contributes to healthier working environments and helps construction firms meet increasingly strict environmental standards.

As Power Adhesives continues to innovate, the company is also pioneering biodegradable adhesive solutions, having launched the world’s first certified biodegradable hot melt in the Tecbond range. While Tecbond 280-PL itself is not biodegradable, it benefits from the same commitment to sustainability, safety, and technical excellence that defines every Power Adhesives product.

The professional’s choice for construction bonding

When construction demands speed, flexibility, and lasting performance, Tecbond 280-PL delivers. From fit-outs to prefab builds, it’s a proven, professional-grade adhesive that makes the installation process faster, cleaner, and more reliable.

For over 50 years, Power Adhesives has been working alongside builders, fit-out specialists, and manufacturers to develop adhesive solutions that solve real-world challenges. Tecbond 280-PL is the latest example of that expertise in action, ready to take on the demands of today’s construction sites.

Ready to work together on your next project? Contact our team for advice on selecting the right adhesive for your needs.

People of PA #6 Gary Temme, IT Manager & Quality Representative

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As we celebrate 50 Years of Innovation at Power Adhesives, we are sitting down and talking with some of our brilliant team as part of our People of Power Adhesives Series.

Next up is Gary Temme, IT Manager & Quality Representative. Gary joined Power Adhesives in 2011, starting in the warehouse before moving into IT and quality leadership. During our chat, we discuss his journey through the business, how his role has evolved, and the impact of QA and ESG on the company’s growth and culture.

 

How did your journey with Power Adhesives begin?

I joined in 2011 as a Warehouse Operative, starting with Perpetual Inventory checks before moving into Goods Inwards and wider warehouse duties. In 2017, I transitioned into IT, turning a long-standing interest in computers into a career. With the company’s support, I achieved Microsoft certification and stepped into the IT Manager role.

Alongside IT, I also lead our Quality Management System. Since taking on that responsibility, we’ve consolidated ISO 9001:2015, achieved ISO 14001 and ISO 45001, and secured an EcoVadis Silver rating, progress that reflects the company’s commitment to doing things properly.

What made you choose to stay with the company for so long?

Opportunity and trust. Power Adhesives backed me to make a big career move from Warehouse to IT and gave me the space to grow. I’ve worked across departments, led meaningful projects, and seen the direct impact of improvements, whether that’s a faster network or a cleaner audit. The culture rewards ownership and continuous improvement; if you see a better way, you’re encouraged to make it happen.

How has your role evolved over the years?

I’ve gone from counting pallets to architecting systems. Today, I oversee IT infrastructure and security, including servers, networking, backups, identity, and endpoint management, ensuring our teams can work securely anywhere. I also manage data, systems, and change, moving us to structured SharePoint sites, rolling out HubSpot with governance, and reducing “shadow IT.”

Alongside IT, I lead quality management, guiding ISO 9001:2015 compliance, audits, process discipline, and corrective actions. I also work with our ESG Committee to provide data-driven sustainability oversight. Starting in the warehouse gave me insight into how quality, safety, and sustainability happen in practice, and I’m proud of our progress.

How have your experiences shaped the way you approach Power Adhesives’ QA and ESG programs?

Starting in the warehouse taught me that quality and sustainability live in the details, how we book stock, label items, segregate waste, or complete line checks. In IT, I learned that governance and data are non-negotiable. I bring those two perspectives together in QA and ESG by designing systems and processes for auditability, with clear ownership, simple evidence trails, and version-controlled documents.

I make sure everything is practical and usable, because procedures that sit on a shelf aren’t worth much, if something doesn’t work for the team at three o’clock on a busy Tuesday, we rewrite it. I also use data to drive decisions, creating dashboards for NC trends, training completion, and environmental metrics so we can focus on what really moves the needle.

What impact has QA and ESG had within the business, during your time at Power Adhesives?

The impact has been significant. We’ve strengthened certifications and governance, consolidating ISO 9001:2015 and aligning more closely with ISO 14001 and ISO 45001. External recognition has followed, with a Silver EcoVadis rating across environment, labour and human rights, ethics, and procurement.

Waste management has improved through a multi-chamber baler and better segregation, pushing us towards 90% recyclability. Safety standards have risen with forklift initiatives, first-aid training, and clear PPE rules. Cleaner data from structured SharePoint sites, controlled folder creation, and secure backups has boosted efficiency.

Most importantly, non-conformances are now seen as opportunities for improvement, encouraging greater ownership and ideas.

Where do you see Power Adhesives in the next 5–10 years?

In the next decade, I see quality staying simple and embedded through right-first-time behaviours, light-touch problem-solving, and an audit-ready mindset. Our bigger focus will be ESG, with product LCAs for key ranges, reduction plans for energy, waste, and transport miles, higher recycled content in packaging, near-zero landfill waste, and greater use of renewable electricity.

On the IT side, we’ll remain secure-by-design and cloud-first, with zero-trust access, MFA, automated backups, and structured data governance. Cleaner integrations and robust cyber defences will underpin measurable ESG progress, faster evidence on demand, and a resilient digital backbone that makes doing the right thing easy.

 

Keep your eye out for more People of Power Adhesives blogs in the future as we continue our 50 Years of Innovation celebrations.

Power Adhesives expands US distribution network to meet growing demand

Written by James Clarke on . Posted in Press Release. No Comments on Power Adhesives expands US distribution network to meet growing demand

Power Adhesives has announced a major expansion of its distribution network in the United States. The restructure is designed to meet increasing demand for Tecbond adhesives and Tec applicators, while ensuring customers benefit from faster delivery, localised expertise, and specialised technical support.

The new supply network introduces three key distribution partners across the US, each with exclusive areas of expertise alongside stocking Power Adhesives’ core product range.

Applied Adhesives, an all-in-one adhesives solutions provider known for its cost-in-use approach and delivering efficiency savings across multiple sectors, will stock the full range of Tecbond hot melt adhesives and Tec applicators and has been appointed as the exclusive US distributor for Tecbond biodegradable hot melt adhesives.

Specialist advanced bonding solutions provider, GLS Products will also stock the full Tecbond adhesive and applicator range and has been appointed the exclusive US distributor for Casttec, which is Power Adhesives’ hot melt adhesive system for precast concrete.

New Star Adhesives, recognised as both an industry leader and innovator with over 70 years’ combined experience in adhesives, composites, veneers, infusion processes, and environmental applications, has been confirmed as the exclusive US distributor for Vactac, the hot melt repositioning adhesive system for vacuum-infused composites.

Through this expanded network, US customers will gain access to first-rate technical knowledge, local customer service, and faster delivery times, all backed by the ongoing support of the Power Adhesives team.

Ross Cunningham, recently appointed Chief Executive Officer at Power Adhesives, said: “As demand for Tecbond adhesives and applicators continues to grow across the US, this restructure ensures our customers receive the very best service.

“By working with Applied Adhesives, GLS Products, and New Star Adhesives, we are partnering with experts who share our commitment to technical excellence and customer support. This expanded network means faster delivery, local expertise, and greater access to our growing portfolio of innovative hot melt adhesive solutions.”

The strengthened US distribution network reflects Power Adhesives’ long-term commitment to supporting customers worldwide with high-quality, high-performance adhesive systems tailored to their specific applications.

Celebrating one year of Tecbond 214B, the world’s first biodegradable adhesive

Written by James Clarke on . Posted in Product News. No Comments on Celebrating one year of Tecbond 214B, the world’s first biodegradable adhesive

In 2024, Power Adhesives made history.

With the launch of Tecbond 214B, we became the first manufacturer in the world to bring a fully certified biodegradable hot melt adhesive to market, an innovation that proved you don’t need to compromise on performance to meet the highest compostability standards.

One year later, that launch has grown into something bigger. A dedicated biodegradable range that’s helping packaging producers, converters, and brands stay ahead of tightening regulations like the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR).

Why Tecbond 214B was a game-changer

Tecbond 214B was designed to solve a growing challenge in sustainable packaging, that the adhesive often stands in the way of achieving full-pack compostability.Even if the main substrate, like a fibre board or compostable film, meets EN 13432 standards, a non-compostable adhesive can invalidate the claim entirely.

Tecbond 214B is:

  • Certified to EN 13432 (EU compostability standard) and ASTM D6400 (US equivalent)
  • Bio-based (45% renewable content)
  • Proven to degrade into CO₂, water, and humus under industrial composting conditions, without leaving microplastics or harmful residues
  • Engineered for strong, clean bonds in secondary packaging applications like carton sealing, wraparound trays, and box assembly

For converters and brands navigating the complex demands of PPWR, 214B offered a clear, compliant solution, without slowing production or compromising quality.

From breakthrough to biodegradable range

The success of Tecbond 214B opened the door for a second major innovation, Tecbond 110B-PR.This lower-temperature biodegradable hot melt delivers all the compostability benefits of 214B while having the potential to cut energy use during application, helping customers hit both compliance and carbon reduction targets.

Together, these products formed the world’s first biodegradable hot melt adhesive range, giving packaging producers more choice when designing for both sustainability and performance.

Proven in our own operations

We don’t just manufacture Tecbond 214B, we trust it in our own packaging. Every carton of Tecbond product leaving our facility is sealed with 214B, giving us first-hand confidence in its performance and compostability.

It’s our way of leading by example and proving that sustainability focused choices can meet the highest demands of packaging integrity, speed, and efficiency.

The PPWR advantage

As the PPWR implementation timeline moves forward, compostability requirements are becoming more defined and more critical.By mid-2027, certain packaging types must be compostable in industrial facilities, including:

  • Sticky labels on fruit and vegetables
  • Tea bags
  • Very lightweight carrier bags
  • …and potentially more formats in future delegated acts

Even for packs not in the ‘must compost’ category, brands are under pressure to prove biodegradability and compostability claims, with adhesives included in the assessment. By choosing EN 13432-certified adhesives like Tecbond 214B and 110B-PR, brands can be confident their adhesive won’t compromise their claim.

A year of progress backed by decades of expertise

The launch of Tecbond 214B was just the start. In the next phase of development, Power Adhesives is working on new biodegradable hot melt formulations to expand the range into more applications and substrates. This means more options for converters and brand owners looking to future-proof their packaging against evolving legislation, sustainability targets, and consumer expectations.

It’s been a landmark year for Power Adhesives, but our approach hasn’t changed:

  • We always listen to customer challenges
  • We use our technical expertise to design adhesives that solve them
  • We lead the market with innovation that’s proven, practical, and production-ready

From Tecbond 214B to the growing biodegradable range, we’re committed to helping the packaging industry bond sustainability with performance, today and for the future.

Ready to explore our biodegradable adhesive range? Contact our team for advice on selecting the right adhesive for your packaging and compliance needs.

Why spray pattern consistency matters in composite and foam bonding

Written by James Clarke on . Posted in Technical Info. No Comments on Why spray pattern consistency matters in composite and foam bonding

When it comes to composite bonding, the difference between a flawless finish and a costly rework often comes down to spray pattern consistency. Mastering the art of consistent spray application can help manufacturers maximise productivity, reduce waste, and ensure each bond is as strong as the last. With our sprayable hot melt adhesives and applicators, it’s easy to get it right every time.

Why spray pattern consistency is vital for composite and foam bonding

In sectors like vehicle fit-outs, product assembly, and shop fitting, the ability to bond composite panels and foams cleanly and reliably is crucial. Whether securing acoustic foam in a van lining or bonding rigid panels for a retail fixture, spray pattern consistency plays a major role in ensuring durability, aesthetics, and performance.

Inconsistent application can result in weak bonds, overspray, or uneven coverage which can lead to rework, waste, or even premature failure. Too little adhesive may cause materials to lift or delaminate, while excessive adhesive can add unnecessary weight, affect the look and feel of the finished product, or interfere with functionality.

Achieving a uniform spray pattern helps ensure the right amount of adhesive is delivered precisely where it’s needed (especially over large surface areas), supporting clean assembly, repeatable quality, and faster throughput.

How do you achieve consistent spray patterns with hot melt adhesives?

Maintaining consistent spray patterns with hot melt adhesives requires careful control over several variables:

  • Nozzle selection and maintenance: Applicators can be equipped with a variety of nozzle types to produce different spray patterns and widths. These nozzles should be regularly inspected and cleaned to prevent clogs that may disrupt the spray pattern.
  • Distance from substrate: Spraying adhesive too close to the substrate can cause an over-concentration of adhesive, increasing setting speeds, while being too far away may result in overspray and poor pattern definition. Maintaining a consistent distance between the applicator nozzle and the substrate will result in more consistent application.
  • Application speed and technique: Moving the spray gun at a steady, appropriate speed will help to avoid overly thick or thin adhesive patches.
  • Environmental conditions: Differences in temperature or humidity can affect the adhesive’s open time, leading to potential bonding issues when substrates are compressed. Monitoring and adjusting for these conditions ensure consistent bonding in line with the adhesive’s specifications.

Adjustable spray settings

Given the number of factors that need accounting for, applicators that come with adjustable spray settings offer invaluable tools for creating consistent adhesive patterns. These devices enable manufacturers to fine-tune adhesive coverage, reduce waste, and avoid patchy bonds or overspray. Everything from nozzle size to pressure can be adjusted, facilitating smooth, even adhesive application. Patterns can also be adjusted by modifying the air pressure, the distance the tool is from the substrate, and by adjusting the air regulation screw on the back end of the tool.

The Power Adhesives solution

Power Adhesives’ sprayable hot melt system is a revolutionary technology for the fast and efficient application of hot melt adhesives. This combination of advanced Tecbond adhesives and Tec applicators brings spray capability to offer a convenient, cost-effective, and consistent method for applying adhesive over large areas without compromising bond strength.

Compared with conventional adhesives, sprayable hotmelt formulations like Tecbond 425 swap hazardous propellants for compressed air to create a safer, consistent application. The adhesives themselves are made of 100% solid hot melt adhesive slugs and solvent-free, eliminating harmful volatile organic compound (VOCs) and protecting employees by creating a safer working environment.

Although Tecbond adhesives are predominantly used for bonding foam and heat sensitive materials like EPS, the range can adhere to almost any substrate, including many challenging materials like certain plastics. Available in five grades, this means that sprayable Tecbond adhesives offer a solution for most bonding applications, from pallet stabilisation to product assembly. This system has been successfully implemented across multiple industries to redefine large-scale bonding, and applications involving heat-sensitive substrates.

Excellence in applicators

These adhesives are designed to work seamlessly with our Tec 6300 and Tec 7300 applicator guns, which can be equipped with multiple different nozzles to tailor spray patterns for the required application, with options for narrow, medium, and wide-angle spray.

The Tec 6300 is a sleek, powerful introductory tool for the spray range. Designed to dispense adhesive in a swirl pattern, this applicator can dispense more than 4kg of adhesive per hour. The Tec 7300 expands on this capability with an increased output with the addition of a speed loader for longer spray periods with minimal downtime.

With both applicators, a simple pull of the pneumatic trigger feeds compressed air into the tool to force the mechanism forward and push adhesive into the heating element. The feed mechanism continues pushing the melted adhesive through the tool up to the nozzle, while the compressed air is then fed into the outlet fluted section, causing the adhesive to spiral and rapidly cool as it’s extruded. This results in a clean, consistent swirl spray pattern that traditional solvent-based aerosols can’t match.

Ready to upgrade your bonding process?

Don’t let inconsistent adhesive application hold your business back. With the right tools and expertise, you can create long-lasting bonds and streamline operations to achieve flawless results every time

Reach out to our team to discover how Power Adhesives can transform your production line with powerful, reliable adhesive technology: sales@poweradhesives.com