A new market forecast report released by Market Research Intellect reveals that the global solvent-free polyurethane (PU) plastic-plastic composite adhesive market is poised for robust expansion, projected to nearly double in size over the next seven years, driven by tightening environmental policies and expanding application scope across key industries.
According to the report, the global market was valued at approximately USD 0.85 billion in 2024 and is expected to surge to USD 1.75 billion by 2033, maintaining a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.5% from 2026 to 2033. This remarkable growth trajectory is primarily fueled by the European Commission’s 2025 revision to REACH Regulation EC 1907/2006, which mandates zero-VOC adhesives for food contact materials in flexible packaging, significantly boosting the adoption of solvent-free PU formulations.
Regionally, Asia-Pacific is set to remain the leading market, with China emerging as a key growth engine. The Chinese market for solvent-free PU composite adhesives is forecast to grow from 43.8 billion yuan in 2025 to 49.3 billion yuan in 2026, a year-on-year increase of 12.6%, and will continue its steady double-digit growth in the coming years. By 2033, Asia-Pacific is expected to account for over 45% of the global market share, supported by booming food packaging, automotive, and electronics industries in China, India, and Southeast Asia.
Segment-wise, the flexible packaging sector will remain the largest application area, but high-growth segments are emerging. The new energy battery and automotive interior segments are projected to grow at a CAGR of over 28% and 11% respectively in China, as solvent-free PU adhesives gain traction in battery module bonding and interior lamination. Additionally, the光伏 industry is expected to become a new growth driver, with certifications for solar panel applications opening up new market opportunities in 2026 and beyond.
Industry experts note that technological advancements and capacity expansion by key manufacturers will further accelerate market growth. With polyol synthesis technology breakthroughs lowering production costs and improving product performance, solvent-free PU adhesives are expected to replace 75% of solvent-based alternatives in key regional markets by 2026, solidifying their dominance in the global plastic-plastic composite adhesive market for the foreseeable future.