The focus for the adhesive industry is the creation of a new generation of adhesives based on cutting-edge technologies including nanotechnology, derivatised polymers, and biomimetic adhesives. Because of the scarcity of raw materials and the harmful impact of synthetic adhesives on human health and the environment, more research into renewable materials is needed to develop environmentally friendly bioadhesives that best fit their application. Smart adhesives, such as switchable types which can be triggered to bond and de‐bond in response to physical or chemical stimuli are under development and some are already available commercially. These will contribute to product disassembly and recycling.
