Bostik, the Adhesive Solutions segment of Arkema, is introducing a conductive seam sealant into the heavy duty truck market in the Americas. Named VSR 400A, this product is based on silyl modified polymer (SMP) and designed for sheet molding compounds (SMCs) such as truck hoods. It will be showcased at the Automotive Composites Conference and Exhibition (ACCE), September 3-5, 2025 in Novi, Michigan.
Compared to traditional electrostatic paint processes, which utilize a conductive primer and non-conductive seam sealant, VSR 400A is formulated with conductivity and sealing properties in one SKU. It eliminates the need for a conductive primer before sealing, which can reduce SKUs, production complexities as well as associated costs and energy usage. Additionally, VSR 400A is engineered for production environments so when applied via an air or electric sealant applicator, it is easy to handle and highly toolable. This allows VSR 400A to offer excellent workability and smooth application across SMC surfaces. Its consistent performance also helps ensure uniform coverage for enhanced paint adhesion and long-term durability as well.
VSR 400A was developed in close collaboration with a leading truck OEM that shared their production challenges with us. Through collaborative problem-solving, we created a product that simplifies the paint and sealing process compared to traditional processes while helping to lower overall manufacturing costs. We’re proud to offer a locally manufactured solution that can reduce lead times and avoid the costs and risks associated with international supply chains.
In addition to helping simplify production and achieving needed performance requirements, VSR 400A supports sustainability efforts. Its formulation helps prolong vehicle paint life, and compared to solvent-based alternatives, does not interfere with SMC material recovery. Further, this SMP-based sealant is isocyanate-free and solvent-free and can help reduce energy consumption during application.
To learn more about this product, visit Bostik at ACCE (#111) or contact an expert.
About Bostik, An Arkema Company
Bostik, the adhesive division of Arkema, is a leading global player in specialty adhesives for industrial, construction, and consumer markets. For 135 years, Bostik has been innovating by developing multifunctional bonding and sealing solutions, enabling its customers to tackle today’s and tomorrow’s ecological, energy, and technological challenges. With a presence in more than 50 countries and over 7,000 employees, Bostik generated €2.7 billion in revenue in 2024. Through continuous improvement and recognized technological expertise, Bostik offers sustainable solutions tailored to meet the performance and responsibility needs of its customers. www.bostik.com.
About Arkema
Building on its unique set of expertise in materials science, Arkema offers a portfolio of first-class technologies to address ever-growing demand for new and sustainable materials. With the ambition to become a pure player in Specialty Materials, the Group is structured into 3 complementary, resilient and highly innovative segments dedicated to Specialty Materials - Adhesive Solutions, Advanced Materials, and Coating Solutions - accounting for some 92% of Group sales in 2024, and a well-positioned and competitive Intermediates segment. Arkema offers cutting-edge technological solutions to meet the challenges of, among other things, new energies, access to water, recycling, urbanization and mobility, and fosters a permanent dialogue with all its stakeholders. The Group reported sales of around € 9.5 billion in 2024, and operates in some 55 countries with 21,150 employees worldwide.
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