Von der Innovation zur Wirkung: tesa feiert ein Jahr des Debonding-on-Demand-Labors in Singapur

tesa celebrated the one-year milestone of its Debonding on Demand laboratory in Singapore, marking a pivotal step in the company’s efforts to develop next-generation adhesive technologies. Established in July 2025, the lab operates as a strategic innovation hub, focusing on creating adhesive solutions that enhance repairability, circularity, and sustainability across industries such as electronics and automotive. The facility, developed in collaboration with Singapore’s national research agency ASTAR, aims to bridge the gap between scientific discovery and commercial application, offering a platform for cutting-edge research and development. The laboratory’s primary goal is to advance polymer-based adhesive technologies that meet the increasing demand for durable yet removable bonds. This includes innovations that allow components to be easily disassembled, facilitating repairs and recycling processes. Over the past year, the joint effort between tesa and ASTAR has yielded progress in several technical domains, including polymer chemistry, adhesive formulations, and surface coating techniques. These advancements have led to the creation of up to 20 new Debonding on Demand concepts, each tailored to address specific industry challenges related to product longevity, resource efficiency, and environmental impact. The collaboration leverages tesa’s extensive experience in adhesive technology and A*STAR’s expertise in advanced materials science. This synergy enables the development of adhesive systems that maintain performance throughout their intended lifespan while allowing controlled debonding when required. Such capabilities are particularly valuable in sectors where product lifecycle management and circular economy principles are becoming increasingly essential. For instance, in the automotive industry, these adhesives could facilitate easier disassembly of vehicle components, reducing waste and improving recyclability. Prof. Dr. Andreas Lendlein, who leads tesa’s technical business development and science office, emphasized the significance of this approach. He noted that the lab’s focus on lifecycle-oriented adhesive solutions supports both operational efficiency and environmental responsibility. “Our work in Singapore is focused on developing reliable adhesive solutions that perform during use and can be removed when needed,” he explained. “This dual functionality is critical for enabling repairable designs and more circular product architectures.” Beyond technological innovation, the lab plays a broader role in addressing contemporary manufacturing challenges. It helps manufacturers navigate complex issues such as resource optimization, waste reduction, and compliance with evolving regulatory standards. As part of tesa’s global innovation network, the Singapore facility aligns with the company’s long-term strategy to drive forward-thinking industrial applications. Its location in Southeast Asia also strengthens tesa’s regional footprint, complementing existing operations in Vietnam, Thailand, and India. The initiative also aligns with Singapore’s Research, Innovation and Enterprise (RIE) 2030 vision, which seeks to position the nation as a leader in advanced manufacturing and materials science. By fostering close ties between industry and academia, the lab exemplifies how collaborative research can translate into tangible economic and environmental benefits. The outcomes of this partnership contribute to the development of technologies that are not only globally applicable but also adaptable to local market demands. Andreas Gunnestrand, President and Regional Manager for tesa tape Asia-Pacific, highlighted the importance of the lab in supporting the evolving needs of manufacturers. “The technologies and application insights developed in Singapore will continue to shape the future of adhesive solutions,” he stated. “We remain committed to driving innovation in the region and beyond.” With ongoing research and development, the lab is poised to play an even greater role in shaping the landscape of sustainable manufacturing and industrial design.