The critical role of adhesives in the evolution of secondary wood manufacturing was everywhere in evidence at the 2014 International Woodworking Fair, held in August in Atlanta.

As wood, the fundamental industry consumable, becomes more expensive – a product of recovering domestic demand and exponential growth in exports – laminates are substituting for solid lumber and veneers at an increasingly quick clip.

Likewise, the shift in interior design planning from timeless classics and heirloom styles, to trending design motifs frequently originating in Europe – adds a demand on wood panel to look like metal, concrete, plastic. That is all easily accomplished with the latest in décor papers and other laminates, and new flash-cured coating systems imparting rich colors and an ultra shiny, gloss – two current if slightly divergent crazes.

Application and curing systems also saw some dramatic advances at IWF 2014, including infrared laser edgebanding, flash-heated glue pots, and stationary curing overs substituting for curing alleys.

This means an ever greater demand on glue consumables to perform to machine specs – and to deliver consistent performance as well.