Pure Performance. Less Exposure.

The Power of Strategic Partnership

As early as 2018, AUDI AG made it a priority to look for future-proof direct glazing systems. Through a series of meetings, discussions and workshops it became clear: new direct glazing systems with low monomeric diisocyanate (MDI) content could meet upcoming Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) standards while enhancing the quality and flexibility of the direct glazing process itself. With the company’s parent group committed to minimizing their ecological footprint and enhancing worker health and safety standards, Sika’s Purform® technology was an ideal match.

Minimizing Risk, Maximizing Flexibility

Sika had anticipated the shift to the new EHS standards early on, leveraging its expertise to create Purform®, a precise polyurethane (PPU) solution with ultra-low MDI content. Working with isocyanates requires specific staff training — a logistical challenge for OEMs where production teams are often rotated across different processes. Sika’s Purform® technology eliminates this complexity by reducing hazardous labeling requirements, enabling safer handling across production lines. This innovation ensures greater staffing flexibility while maintaining compliance with EHS standards. 

Pure Performance in Direct Glazing

The new Purform® based Sikaflex®-650 VG-1 not only meets low MDI requirements but also offers superior adhesion, processability, and mechanical robustness. For AUDI AG, this meant achieving compliance while gaining a competitive edge in production efficiency and product durability.

For AUDI AG, the specific advantages of Sikaflex®-650 VG-1 included:

• Enhanced adhesion to a wider range of substrates, including new paint systems and clear coats.
• Controlled hardening times, even without moisturedependent boosters, offering greater precision in production.
• More robust mechanical performance, ensuring  long-term reliability across service temperature ranges.

New Products in the Pipeline

As the new direct glazing system is rolled out globally, the next steps in the collaboration are already under way. Sikaflex®-650 VG-2 and VG-3 are already undergoing approval processes. Collaboration is expanding to other brands in the automotive group. And certification processes are under way to extend the same benefits to repair adhesives, where training constraints in local repair shops make low-MDI systems particularly valuable.

A Stronger Future Built on Trust

By addressing challenges like bonding on evolving paint systems and substrates, Sika has enabled AUDI AG to streamline operations while meeting future-oriented sustainability goals. Through constant innovation and collaboration, Sika continues to shape the future of automotive manufacturing and repair together with forward-thinking industry partners to reach new levels of safety, sustainability and performance.