NTL Chemical Consulting is a leading Licensing Resin Technology Provider, specializing in formaldehyde-based resins for the wood-based panel industry. With 35 years of experience, the company provides customized resin solutions tailored to each producer’s unique production conditions and specifications. Their global clientele benefits from the expertise in optimizing resin performance, ensuring efficiency, and meeting stringent quality standards.
What are the main areas of activity of the company?
NTL’s primary expertise lies in research and development of resins, additives, and other chemicals in its laboratory in Thessaloniki’s Technology Park in Greece. The company offers expert consulting services, providing detailed guidance on resin synthesis and application processes. The company also offers complete engineering services for the construction and operation of resin plants. Licensing agreements form a key part of its operations, granting clients exclusive rights to leverage NTL’s innovative formulations.
What’s the news about new products/services?
In response to increasing environmental and regulatory demands and the recognition that the majority of the carbon footprint of wood-based panels originates from the fossil-based resins used in their production, NTL is spearheading the development of bio-based resins that serve as low-footprint alternatives to traditional urea-formaldehyde (UF) resins. The company’s focus is not on disturbing the food chain but on using natural byproducts and waste materials, combined with advanced crosslinkers, to create sustainable and cost-effective formulations.
What are the ranges of products/services?
NTL provides a diverse range of products and services tailored to the wood-based panel industry. Its formaldehyde-based resins offer high-performance solutions for applications such as particleboard, MDF, OSB, and plywood, meeting the most stringent formaldehyde emission standards, down to CARB-II and Super E0 (F****). In addition, the company offers solutions for paper impregnation, engineered wood such as Glulam, LVL, CLT, etc., as well as insulation materials like mineral wool and glass wool. NTL specializes in customized formulations, delivering tailored solutions to meet the specific needs of its clients and plants. The company offers extensive technical support services, including on-site assistance, troubleshooting, and process optimization to ensure seamless integration of its products into client operations
What is the state of the market where you are currently active?
Market conditions in Europe have been poor in the past two years. 2023 and 2024 have been “flat years” with hopes of recovery starting in 2025, although not reaching 2022 performance levels. As a reference, the price of particleboard has halved since 2022 due to low demand and high supply. The case is the same for North America. On the other hand, Asia Pacific shows stronger growth, driven by exports and regional demand due to the growing middle class.
What can you tell us about market trends?
The wood-based panel industry is undergoing significant transformation due to stricter environmental regulations and growing consumer demand for sustainable products. While traditional resins remain dominant, there is a clear shift toward low-emission and bio-based alternatives. This shift is driven by efforts to reduce carbon footprints, mainly in the European market. Sustainability has become a key focus, with increasing emphasis on reducing carbon footprints and adopting renewable raw materials. Stricter standards for carbon footprints are driving the demand for greener solutions. Plants have been using recycled wood more and more commonly. At the same time, technological advancements and the implementation of AI in wood-panel plants enable more efficient manufacturing processes, enhancing performance and reducing costs. As highlighted in industry reports, the market’s focus on bio-resins and low-emission technologies aligns perfectly with NTL’s innovations, ensuring the company remains a leader in providing cutting-edge solutions.
The new political climate in the USA may influence this trend, however, with potential policies promoting higher-performing products instead. Only time will tell if this affects market behaviour.
What are the most innovative products/services marketed?
Formaldehyde-based resins remain the most cost-effective option in the market. However, NTL’s aim is to transition progressively from traditional systems to 100% bio solutions, leveraging natural byproducts and waste materials along with advanced crosslinkers to achieve sustainable innovations.
What estimations do you have for the beginning of 2025?
As we enter 2025, the trend will continue toward low-footprint emissions, especially in Europe, alongside the increasing implementation of AI in manufacturing processes. However, the primary hope is for the market to recover, ensuring a stronger and more stable industry. NTL is excited to participate again as an exhibitor in the largest fair in the industry, LIGNA in Hanover, where it will showcase its latest innovations and network with global leaders. With its unwavering commitment to excellence and sustainability, NTL is poised to remain a trailblazer in resin technology, shaping the future of the wood-based panel industry.