Bostik Unveils SMP-based STR Range of Adhesives for Transportation

Wauwatosa, WI -- Bostik, one of the worldwide leader in adhesive and sealant technology, announces a new family of transportation-related adhesives and sealants. The Standard Transportation Range (STR) products, formulated from Silyl-Modified Polymers (SMP) are the latest innovation from the company.

In an effort to serve the needs of their customers with the most aggressive budgets and whose application may not require the advanced performance of the Industrial Special Range (ISR) line, Bostik chemists have engineered the STR Series of adhesives. The result is an all new product family for RV, trailer and general industrial manufacturers.

The SMP-based STR Series offers significant health, safety and environmental advantages when compared to similar polyurethaneproducts. Polyurethanes are most commonly formed by reacting diisocyanates together with polyols, and it is typical that residualisocyanate content remains with the product. Isocyanates have been and continue to be targeted by global agencies. Their presence in polyurethanes is currently resulting in increased regulatory action. United States Environmental Protection Agency, European Union REACh legislation, United States Occupational Safety and Health Administration and Health Canada are just a few of those beginning to restrict polyurethane market sectors, uses and handling. While polyurethanes are the traditional choice, one can expect more discussion around their continued use now that regulatory, health and research agencies are studying the adverse effects of its starting materials.

SMP technology, in contrast to polyurethane, is a safer and more sustainable alternative. It is free of solvent and isocyanates (hazardous air pollutants and sensitizers) and even contains many materials designated as "safer chemical ingredients" by federal agencies. Additionally, the STR Series meets current and proposed VOC regulations such as CARB, SCAQMD and OTC.

In addition to the safety advantages of the STR Series, it offers reliable performance for its intended purpose. The STR220A is suitable for sealing on many different substrates including glass, polycarbonate, stainless steel, aluminum, composite materials such as epoxy, polyester and vinyl ester and painted or powder-coated metals. The STR350A provides elastic sealing and bonding on the same range of substrates. The STR360A SKF offers the same capabilities of the STR350A with higher green strength and a longer open time. The products are suitable to make elastic constructive sealing joints anywhere sealing is necessary. Excellent UV, weather and temperature resistance are also key features of the new Bostik products.

Kristin St. Martin, Product Line Manager, states, “The SMP-based STR Series satisfies a need in the market for a high performance, safer alternative to polyurethanes. The unique capabilities of the new line will make it a favorite for manufacturers of buses, trailers, truck bodies, special vehicles and general industrial manufacturers for wind power and appliances.” St. Martin goes on to state, “Launching these products is a result of years of testing and analysis by the entire Bostik organization. We have worked tirelessly to ensure the safety of this product for our customers. If you are looking for a safer alternative to polyurethane, this is the product for you.”