LIGNA 2025: Hexion to unveil AI-driven innovations that revolutionise the wood panel industry

Hexion, a global leader in adhesives and performance materials, will take the spotlight at LIGNA 2025, the five-day global conference for woodworking and wood processing in Hannover, Germany, which takes place from 26–30 May. With the wood panel industry at a pivotal turning point, Hexion will demonstrate how it’s poised to redefine performance, efficiency and sustainability in this mature manufacturing sector through the integration of next-generation chemistry, artificial intelligence and advanced manufacturing technologies.

“The wood panel industry is at a critical inflection point, where speed, sustainability and performance can no longer be trade-offs,” says Michael Lefenfeld, Hexion CEO. “The mill of the future won’t be defined by incremental gains, but by bold shifts in design, production and optimisation. At Hexion, we’re combining AI, chemistry and engineering to eliminate inefficiencies that were once considered the cost of doing business. LIGNA is the ideal platform to share this vision with the industry.”

Hexion’s activities at LIGNA will include:

• A keynote address on Monday 26 May at 16:00 by Michael Lefenfeld: “Revolutionizing Wood Panels: Why the Future Runs Through AI”, in Hall 12, Booth A16. The presentation will explore how AI is transforming panel production – from precision resin and wax delivery to full-scale process automation that increases throughput, improves raw material efficiency and reduces waste

• The launch of breakthrough technologies, including an AI-powered optimisation platform developed with Smartech to significantly reduce waste, maximise material use and enhance product quality.

• On-site access at Hexion’s booth in Hall 26, Stand D77, where company executives will be available for briefings, one-on-one meetings and product demonstrations.

The company’s presence at LIGNA highlights Hexion’s continued evolution from materials supplier to full-service innovation partner, now delivering AI-enabled solutions across the manufacturing value chain.

“AI transformed finance and logistics – now it’s manufacturing’s turn,” Michael continues. “By combining data intelligence with chemistry and machine automation, we’re unlocking real gains where it matters most: throughput, material efficiency and product quality. With wood panel manufacturing long underserved by digital transformation, this isn’t just progress – it’s a leap forward.”

To learn more about Hexion’s presence at LIGNA, visit www.hexion.com/ligna.