Christopher Dobbins
Application Manager Adhesives & Sealants, Omya International
Christopher Dobbins studied Ocean Sciences at the University of Wales, Bangor and joined Omya as Application Manager for Adhesives and Sealants in 2021. In 2006, he joined Dow Inc. and held various research roles in Emulsion Polymers for Synthetic Grass, Specialty Latex and Paper and Board. Later, he transitioned into a Laboratory Leader role in Polyurethanes R&D for slabstock, flex moulded and rigid applications before taking a EMEA Technical Service role for PU Flexible foam. In 2018, he helped lead Dow’s Predictive Intelligence digitalization efforts and is a strong advocate of sustainable chemistry.
Redefining Industry Standards of Light and Heat Stabilizers – Performance Meets Sustainability
In recent years, the adhesive and sealant sector has seen remarkable advancement through innovative technology based on silane modified polymers (SMP). These materials deliver exceptional performance by merging durability with sustainable characteristics. Their composition helps to minimize the use of harmful ingredients while offering formulators extensive customization possibilities, making them increasingly popular in modern bonding applications.
Today the regulatory authorities continue to screen conventional light and heat stabilizers for their potential hazards and many chemistries have been reclassified either as SVHC (Substance of Very High Concern) or CMR (Carcinogenic, Mutagenic or Reprotoxic) substances. In order to offer a safer alternative to these grades, Clariant and Omya have developed and introduced on the market the first label-free light and heat stabilizers solution for SMP sealants.
As reactive sealants are thermosetting systems, recycling these materials can pose a challenge. Extending the service life of such sealants represents a cost-effective and practical way to improve the sustainability benefits in these applications, while reducing their hazard footprint.
Co-author: Jean-Yves Desrats
Breakout X- Industry Outlook & Technologies – 12 September 2025 – 9:30 – 10:00 – Room 2