Aerospace Adhesives & Sealants Market Size & Share Analysis - Growth Trends & Forecasts UP TO 2028

Aerospace Adhesives & Sealants Market Analysis

The Aerospace Adhesives & Sealants Market size is estimated at 1.18 billion USD in 2024, and is expected to reach 1.44 billion USD by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 5.14% during the forecast period (2024-2028).

The aerospace adhesives and sealants industry is experiencing significant transformation driven by technological advancements and sustainability initiatives. The industry's landscape is characterized by a robust presence in Europe, home to over 3,000 companies employing more than 880,000 professionals across the aerospace sector. This extensive industrial base has fostered innovation in adhesive technologies, particularly in developing advanced bonding solutions for both civil and military applications. The sector's evolution is further shaped by stringent environmental regulations and the increasing focus on sustainable manufacturing practices, pushing manufacturers to develop eco-friendly adhesive solutions.

The industry is witnessing a remarkable shift towards lightweight construction and advanced material applications. Epoxy-based aerospace adhesives have emerged as a cornerstone technology, offering exceptional structural properties with tensile strength reaching up to 12,000 psi (82 MPa), making them ideal for critical applications in both interior and exterior aircraft components. These advanced adhesives are revolutionizing aircraft assembly processes, enabling the construction of more efficient and durable structures while maintaining the highest safety standards. The integration of these high-performance adhesives has become crucial in modern aircraft design, particularly in sandwich panels, fuselage construction, and honeycomb structures.

A significant industry trend is the increasing emphasis on fuel efficiency and operational cost reduction through innovative bonding solutions. The adoption of advanced aerospace sealants and adhesives has contributed to a remarkable reduction in airline fuel costs, with expenditures decreasing by approximately 40% over the past decade. This achievement is largely attributed to the replacement of traditional mechanical fasteners with lightweight adhesive solutions, enabling the construction of lighter aircraft while maintaining structural integrity. The industry's focus has shifted towards developing adhesives that not only reduce weight but also enhance the overall performance and longevity of aircraft components.

The market is experiencing a profound transformation in manufacturing processes and application technologies. UV-cured aerospace adhesives and sealants have gained prominence due to their precision application capabilities and rapid curing properties, making them particularly valuable in aerospace manufacturing. The industry is also witnessing increased investment in research and development, focusing on developing adhesives with improved temperature resistance, chemical compatibility, and durability. These advancements are complemented by the growing adoption of automated application systems and quality control measures, ensuring consistent performance and reliability in aerospace applications.

Global Aerospace Adhesives & Sealants Market Trends

Rapid growth of civil and military aviation will boost the aircraft production

• The global aerospace industry is largely dominated by North America, Asia-Pacific, and Europe. The United States is both a global and regional leader in the aerospace industry due to its design, development, and production capabilities of technologically sophisticated aircraft, space systems, and military aircraft. In 2021, a total of around 1,956 units of aircraft, including civil, general, and military, were delivered to the country, compared to 1,807 units in 2020. It is forecast that the country may need 2,269 units of aircraft by 2028.
• In the Asia-Pacific region, China is the largest and fastest-growing market for civil aerospace and aviation services. In 2021, the country experienced a decline in aircraft deliveries, registering around 264 units of total aircraft in civil, general, and military, compared to 367 units delivered in 2020. However, it is forecast to recover and reach 969 units in 2028.
• In Europe, Germany has one of the largest aerospace industries, with the presence of original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), Tier I suppliers, and systems integrators. In 2021, the country saw an increase in aircraft deliveries, amounting to around 138 units of total aircraft in civil, general, and military, compared to 98 units in 2020. The market is projected to reach 262 units in 2028. In 2021, the aerospace industry's revenue stood at EUR 31.4 billion. In 2020 and 2021, civil aviation was the highest revenue-generating sector, amounting to around EUR 22 billion in both years, compared to EUR 32 billion in 2019. However, the market is not expected to recover until 2024-2025.
• All the abovementioned factors are expected to impact the global aerospace industry during the forecast period.

Segment Analysis: Resin

Epoxy Segment in Aerospace Adhesives & Sealants Market

Epoxy resin dominates the aerospace adhesives and aerospace sealants market, commanding approximately 45% market share in 2024. The segment's leadership position is attributed to its superior structural properties and excellent adhesion to various substrates, including metals, composites, and plastics. Aerospace epoxy adhesives demonstrate high strength and low shrinkage during curing, making them ideal for critical aerospace applications. These adhesives offer exceptional resistance to chemicals and environmental damage, while providing superior electrical insulation properties. With tensile strength reaching up to 55 N/mm2 (8000 psi), epoxy adhesives are extensively used in aircraft electronics, optical fiber systems, braking systems, and numerous other structural applications where precision and reliability are paramount.

Cyanoacrylate Segment in Aerospace Adhesives & Sealants Market

The cyanoacrylate segment is experiencing rapid growth in the aerospace adhesives and sealants market, with an expected growth rate of approximately 7% during 2024-2029. This impressive growth is driven by cyanoacrylate's unique properties, particularly its fast curing times and versatility in bonding various substrates. These adhesives require minimal application amounts to form strong bonds between metals, glass, and polymers, with bonds strengthening within 10 minutes of application and achieving full solidification within 24 hours. The segment's growth is further supported by its effectiveness in aircraft wing spar bonding, repairing damaged interior trims, sign bonding, and various small repair applications, making it increasingly popular in both manufacturing and maintenance operations.

Remaining Segments in Aerospace Adhesives & Sealants Market by Resin

The aerospace adhesives and sealants market features several other significant resin segments, each serving specific applications. Polyurethane adhesives are valued for their flexibility and effectiveness in non-structural applications, from interior components to exterior parts. Silicone-based products excel in high-temperature applications and provide excellent flexibility and vibration resistance. Acrylic adhesives offer improved temperature range and solvent resistance compared to conventional options. VAE/EVA adhesives, while having a smaller market share, are preferred for specific interior applications due to their cost-effectiveness and temperature resistance. Other specialty resins, including rubber adhesives and polysulfide sealants, continue to play crucial roles in specialized aerospace applications where specific performance characteristics are required.

Segment Analysis: Technology

UV Cured Adhesives Segment in Aerospace Adhesives & Sealants Market

UV-cured adhesives technology dominates the aerospace adhesives and sealants market, commanding approximately 35% market share in 2024. This segment's leadership position is attributed to its precision and high-strength bonding capabilities that fulfill the exact requirements of aircraft manufacturers. UV-cured adhesives utilize only one component, eliminating pot-life problems and simplifying production schedules. These adhesives are 100% reactive with no volatile losses during curing, making the process non-polluting. The technology's success stems from its unique activation properties, triggered only when exposed to UV light of 250 to 350 nm wavelength. The segment's growth is driven by its superior properties including precision bonding, high viscosity of up to 17 Pa.s, and broad application temperature range.

Remaining Segments in Technology

The aerospace adhesives and sealants market encompasses several other significant technology segments including solvent-borne, reactive, sealants, hot melt, and water-borne adhesives. Solvent-borne adhesives represent the second-largest segment, particularly valued for their structural applications and high shear strength properties. Reactive adhesives are preferred for heavy loads requiring high strength adherence and durability. Sealants play a crucial role in fuel tank sealing and assembly weight reduction. Hot melt adhesives offer advantages in thermal stability and rapid setting capabilities. Water-borne adhesives, while representing a smaller share, are gaining attention for their eco-friendly properties and low VOC emissions, particularly in aircraft assembly and interior applications.

Aerospace Adhesives & Sealants Market Geography Segment Analysis

Aerospace Adhesives & Sealants Market in Asia-Pacific

The Asia-Pacific region represents a dynamic aerospace adhesives and sealants market, characterized by diverse manufacturing capabilities and growing aviation infrastructure. Countries like China, Japan, and South Korea have established themselves as major manufacturing hubs, while emerging economies such as India and Indonesia are rapidly developing their aerospace capabilities. The region benefits from increasing investments in both civil and military aviation sectors, with a significant focus on domestic aircraft production and maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) operations.

Aerospace Adhesives & Sealants Market in China

China dominates the Asia-Pacific aerospace adhesives and sealants market, holding approximately 40% share of the regional market in 2024. The country's aerospace industry ranks second globally, with extensive local aircraft manufacturing facilities and maintenance capabilities. The Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), with over 100 subsidiaries and 450,000 employees, leads the domestic manufacturing sector. China's aerospace sector benefits from strong government support through initiatives aimed at developing indigenous aircraft manufacturing capabilities and reducing dependence on imports.

Aerospace Adhesives & Sealants Market in India

India emerges as the fastest-growing market in the Asia-Pacific region, with a projected growth rate of approximately 9% during 2024-2029. The country's aerospace sector is witnessing significant transformation through initiatives like Make in India and policy reforms such as the Defence Procurement Procedure. Private industry participation has increased, with major corporate houses like Tata, Mahindra, L&T, and Godrej entering the aerospace manufacturing sector. The country's growing domestic aviation market and increasing focus on indigenous aircraft production are driving the demand for aerospace adhesives and sealants.

Aerospace Adhesives & Sealants Market in Europe

Europe maintains a strong position in the global aerospace adhesives and sealants market, supported by its well-established aerospace manufacturing ecosystem. The region hosts over 3,000 aerospace companies employing more than 880,000 people, with major concentrations in France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom. The European aerospace industry excels in both civil and military aircraft production, with significant expertise in helicopter manufacturing and advanced aerospace components.

Aerospace Adhesives & Sealants Market in Germany

Germany leads the European market, commanding approximately 35% of the regional market share in 2024. The country's aerospace industry ranks among the top three in Europe, with significant investment in research and development, spending around EUR 2.5 billion annually. German aerospace manufacturers maintain strong international partnerships, with over 72% of their products being exported, particularly to France and other European nations.

Aerospace Adhesives & Sealants Market in Russia

Russia represents the fastest-growing market in Europe, with an expected growth rate of approximately 6% during 2024-2029. The country's aerospace sector is undergoing significant transformation with new developments in both civil and military aviation. The introduction of new aircraft programs and the modernization of existing fleets are driving the demand for commercial aviation adhesives. The country's focus on developing domestic aircraft manufacturing capabilities and reducing dependence on Western imports is creating new opportunities in the market.

Aerospace Adhesives & Sealants Market in Middle East & Africa

The Middle East & Africa region presents a growing market for aerospace adhesives and sealants, driven by expanding aviation infrastructure and increasing investments in both civil and military aerospace sectors. The region's strategic location as a global aviation hub has led to significant development in maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facilities, particularly in the Gulf region.

Aerospace Adhesives & Sealants Market in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia leads the Middle East & Africa market, with the largest aerospace industry in the region. The country's aviation sector represents a significant contributor to its GDP, with substantial investments in fleet expansion and maintenance facilities. The government's focus on developing domestic aerospace capabilities and expanding international routes has strengthened the country's position in the regional market.

Aerospace Adhesives & Sealants Market in South Africa

South Africa emerges as the fastest-growing market in the Middle East & Africa region. The country's aerospace industry, ranking among the top 40 globally, benefits from strong government-private partnerships and collaboration with research universities. South Africa's position as a major supplier base for international aerospace manufacturers and its growing maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) capabilities are driving market growth.

Aerospace Adhesives & Sealants Market in North America

North America represents a dominant force in the global aerospace adhesives and sealants market, with advanced manufacturing capabilities and extensive research and development infrastructure. The region's aerospace industry faces increasing pressure for decarbonization, driving innovation in adhesive technologies. The United States leads the regional market and shows the fastest growth, supported by its position as the world's largest aerospace industry. The presence of major manufacturers like Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and Gulfstream Aerospace, combined with extensive MRO operations, maintains the region's market leadership. Canada and Mexico contribute significantly through their integrated supply chains and growing aerospace manufacturing capabilities.

Aerospace Adhesives & Sealants Market in South America

The South American aerospace interior adhesives market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the emergence of low-budget airlines and increasing air travel accessibility for the middle class. Brazil dominates the regional market and shows the fastest growth rate, supported by its position as the fifth-largest aerospace industry globally. The country's strong manufacturing base, led by companies like Embraer, and its growing maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) sector contribute to market expansion. Argentina and other South American countries are also developing their aerospace capabilities, focusing on both civil and military aviation sectors.