Sandeep Joshi, Sr. Marketing Manager, Dow Chemical International Private Limited in an interview with B2B Purchase.

How do you evaluate the demand for industrial chemicals in the construction and infrastructure sector in India? 

The construction industry is a very critical part for the economy as it is a significant contributor to the country’s GDP. It is also one of the largest employers in the country with a huge population involved in the segment. The construction chemicals market in India is expected to grow at higher double digits over the next 5 years. With the increase in awareness and improved standards, we expect growth in the demand for chemicals. The penetration of sealants and adhesives, driven by consumer awareness, and is expected to expand even further, and bring ease of application, performance and aesthetics.

Which products, chemicals and materials are primarily used in the construction and infrastructure sector? 

Many products like admixtures, waterproofing chemicals, adhesives and sealants are used in the sector. DOW participates at multiple points across the value chain with multiple chemistries such as Silicones, Polyurethanes, Acrylics, MS Hybrid etc. [RS] These products developed by Dow are customized and cater to the challenging application needs of the industry, like building exterior façade, expansion joints, pavement joints, fire rated system joint seal and waterproofing joints. Our technology leadership and global footprint allow us to cater to the industry’s needs.

How is technology aiding you to enhance efficiency and durability of your products and services for construction and infrastructure segment? 

The technologies offered by DOW, such as silicone chemistry, have proven track record for durability when exposed to atmospheric conditions. The basic polymer has inherent stability against UV providing long term adhesion durability. The concept of providing air and watertight seal in a building is critical to manage thermal efficiency. Also, with increased awareness, many building projects including high end residential have started using double glazed units and these units are edge-sealed with silicone sealants that provide excellent thermal performance for IG units with enhanced durability. The silicone sealants are in use for doing structural glazing from 1971; 50 years of proven case history, and more than 60 years for Weatherseal.

What are challenges being faced while application of sealants, roofing chemicals, and insulation construction and infrastructure? 

Except for the high-end projects, the mid and low segment projects tend to use sub-standard products for glazing and for Weatherseal application. The tender documents should have strong technical requirement mentioned for the intended application and this is missing in many projects. Also trained and skilled workforce available to do proper sealant application is less in the industry. Most of the fly by night or first time operators without proper training might the product incorrectly and this can lead to premature failure. The aspects such as design, selection of product and application are the key challenges faced by the industry. 

What are your latest and upcoming additions into this segment, and which technologies have been implemented to them?

We, at DOW, put a lot of emphasis on innovation and sustainability. We have launched multiple products over the last couple of years to address the needs of the market. We are also celebrating 50 years of Silicones in the building and infrastructure market this year. With access to different technologies we have launched products like DOWSILTM 789-P Silicone Hybrid Sealant for precast buildings. We have introduced DOWSILTM 650 to help address needs in the glass façade segment with a coating solution to protect the glass façade during the construction activities at the site. DOWSILTM 375 PU sealant for balustrades, and DOWSILTM EPDM for weatherproofing. As a part of our project management service we also work with our customers to identify the right products and technical support for the facades. We will launch our improved project management service tool later this year. 

How do you see growth prospects for construction and infrastructure chemicals in India? 

Policy and macros are supporting higher growth. Many factors supporting growth in the construction sector like rising per capita income, urbanisation, increasing investments from government and private will continue to drive the market. Newer products and increasing penetration of chemicals will also drive the segment.