As we discussed in our earlier blog post the construction industry is accelerating towards a more sustainable future, every component — from structural panels to surface treatments — is being re-evaluated through the lens of environmental impact.
Adhesives are no exception and in this blog we take a closer look at CorMelt 500, a hot melt polyamide resin designed to meet the technical demands of modern manufacturing while supporting the industry’s shift to greener materials and more circular processes.
Manufactured in Europe and supported by Cornelius’ UK-based technical team, CorMelt 500 is already proven as a preformed road marking binder. But as the sector embraces regulatory change and low-carbon materials, this dimer acid-based polyamide is showing broader potential across the construction industry.
Bio-Based Chemistry: Sustainable by Design
Built on dimer acid polyamide chemistry, this bio-based product draws on renewable feedstocks rather than fossil-derived alternatives — a key advantage in light of stricter European sustainability targets across the construction and infrastructure sectors.
Bio-based hot melt adhesives like CorMelt 500 don’t just reduce reliance on non-renewable resources. They also offer a lower embedded carbon footprint, improved alignment with environmental product declarations (EPDs), and compatibility with Digital Product Passports (DPPs) under the updated EU Construction Products Regulation.
Regulatory Readiness: Aligned with the 2025 EU Construction Product Regulation
With the updated EU Construction Products Regulation (CPR) coming into effect in January 2025, the materials used in the built environment are being held to a new standard. Key updates include:
- Mandatory Digital Product Passports (DPPs) to communicate safety, environmental and performance data
- Stronger alignment with circular economy goals
- Greater scrutiny of sourcing, traceability, and end-of-life considerations
CorMelt 500 is already aligned with this framework. Its dimer acid-based polyamide composition supports responsible sourcing policies, making it a natural fit for manufacturers and specifiers seeking compliant, high-performance materials that won’t compromise their sustainability credentials.
Tackling Feedstock Volatility with Confidence
Over the past decade, raw material volatility has created significant challenges for formulators — especially those relying on hydrocarbon-based resins. While current prices for C5 and C9 hydrocarbons may seem attractive, the long-term risks of price swings, supply disruptions, and emissions-heavy sourcing remain high.
As a hot melt polyamide adhesive for road markings and construction adhesives, CorMelt 500 offers a more resilient path forward. Customers are increasingly using it in place of traditional hydrocarbon resins, blending it with rosin esters for a performance profile that’s both robust and sustainable.
More Than Just Road Markings: A Cross-Sector Performer
While CorMelt 500 has earned its place as a reliable hot melt polyamide adhesive for thermoplastic markings, its applications extend well beyond roads. The characteristics that make it effective under traffic conditions — namely, thermal stability, chemical resistance and clean application — translate easily into other construction and manufacturing domains.
Potential use cases include:
- Timber construction and joinery – Strong, flexible bonds with reduced splintering
- Sustainable packaging – High adhesion to coated and flexible surfaces in eco-conscious transport and storage systems
Built for Performance. Designed for Change
With UK-based technical support, European manufacturing, and a vertically integrated supply chain, Cornelius offers more than a product — we offer partnership. From formulation support to regulatory alignment and custom development, we work directly with manufacturers to help them build smarter, more resilient material systems.
Whether you’re reformulating due to regulatory updates or exploring new sustainable solutions, CorMelt 500 delivers consistent performance — with a future-ready footprint.
Ready to Formulate the Future?
Contact us at sales.enquiries@cornelius.co.uk to request a technical data sheet, sample, or consultation on how Cornelius could support your next project.
Discover more about our hot melt polyamide resin technologies and our commitment to sustainable innovation in construction and infrastructure.