Press & Media 

Henkel Adhesive Technologies further strengthens its capabilities for the growing demand of smart adult care solutions by investing in Smartz AG ‏(Smartz), a medical technology start-up headquartered in Baar, Switzerland. Smartz has developed an end-to-end-solution for diapers that improves the quality of life for adults while at the same time effectively supporting care and medical personnel as well as reducing costs and increasing the service level in care facilities. Both companies already have signed a joint marketing and joint development agreement earlier this year to combine Henkel´s printed electronics expertise with the adult care Internet of Things ‏(IoT) hardware and software solutions of the start-up. With the investment, Henkel aims to strengthen this partnership and to drive the development of additional innovative adult care applications in the future.

Following the introduction of its new “Sustainable Finance Framework” just over a month ago, Henkel has now issued the first two sustainability-linked bonds under this framework. A bond with a volume of 500 million euros, a maturity of eleven years and an interest rate of 0.5 percent was issued, as well as a bond with a volume of 250 million US dollars ‏(equivalent to approx. 220 million euros), a maturity of five years and an interest rate of 1.8 percent. This makes Henkel the first company in its sector to place a euro sustainability-linked bond. With the sustainability-linked-US dollar bond, Henkel is also the first issuer ever in the Eurodollar market. The proceeds of the issue are to be used for general corporate purposes, including the refinancing of a bond that became due.

Consumer adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) has grown significantly over the last year alone, representing 26% of new vehicle sales globally, according to industry analyst IDTechEx. As environmental consciousness and sustainability continue to influence buying behavior, EV unit sales are projected to continue on this trajectory and expand as much as 30% through 2030, by some estimates. To ensure this positive, CO₂-reducing trend maintains its steady acceleration, a significantly expanded EV charging infrastructure is required. Central to the production, cost-effectiveness and durability of EV chargers – from Level 1 residential to ultra-fast DC chargers – are materials that enable robust operational performance, component durability and protection from harsh conditions and handling.

Henkel has introduced three new low pressure molding ‏(LPM) materials designed to seal and protect medical devices from moisture, temperature extremes, chemicals, vibration, impact and other environmental concerns. Using a gentle, low pressure process, Loctite PA 6732, Loctite PA 6682 and Loctite PA 6951 completely encapsulate medical devices including catheters, tube sets, connectors, and surgical tools, as well as sensors and switches used in medical diagnostic and monitoring equipment. All three LPM products are tested to Henkel’s protocols based upon ISO 10993 biocompatibility standards including skin sensitization, with certificates available on request.