70 Years of Loctite: A Legacy of Adhesive Innovation

The year 2026 will mark a remarkable milestone for Loctite—70 years of leading the world in industrial adhesives. From its humble beginnings in a university lab to becoming a household name in the electronics and manufacturing sectors, Loctite has built a legacy of innovation, quality, and trust. At ConRo Electronics, we’re proud to stock Loctite products and to celebrate their seven decades of adhesive excellence.

A Humble Beginning With a Big Idea

The story of Loctite began in 1953 in a basement lab at Trinity College in Hartford, Connecticut. Dr Vernon Krieble, a professor and entrepreneur, was searching for a solution to a common but stubborn problem—vibration loosening in mechanical fasteners. Alongside his son, Robert, he developed a revolutionary anaerobic sealant that only cured in the absence of air and in the presence of metal. This innovation set the stage for a new era in industrial adhesives.

In 1956, it was Nancy Brayton Krieble, daughter-in-law of Vernon Krieble, who came up with the name Loctite. That same year, in July, the new threadlocking sealant was officially launched. The advantages were immediately clear: improved reliability, easier assembly, and longer-lasting components. News of the innovation spread rapidly, and Loctite quickly became essential across a range of industries—from automotive to aerospace.

Expansion and Diversification

The 1960s marked a period of rapid growth for Loctite. In 1964, the company introduced cyanoacrylate adhesives, commonly known as instant adhesives or Super Glue, which cured instantly at room temperature and bonded a variety of materials . This product quickly became a household staple.

Loctite continued to diversify its product range, introducing silicones, epoxies, acrylics, and new anaerobic formulations. In 1968, the company entered the automotive market, offering solutions to prevent engine vibrations caused by loose fasteners.

Joining the Henkel Family

A pivotal chapter in Loctite history unfolded in 1997, when the brand was acquired by German chemical and consumer goods giant Henkel. This merger brought together two innovation powerhouses and accelerated the development of new adhesive solutions under the Loctite banner.

As part of Henkel, Loctite expanded its product line to include shock-resistant Super Glues, flexible instant adhesives and more. With a broader global reach and access to Henkel’s extensive R&D capabilities, Loctite continued to strengthen its position as a leading provider of industrial adhesives.

Loctite Today: A Trusted Global Leader

In 2026, Loctite will celebrate its 70th anniversary—an impressive legacy that few brands in the industrial adhesive space can claim. What makes Loctite so enduring is not only the strength of its products, but also the trust it has built with professionals around the world.

Today, Loctite adhesives are used in virtually every sector imaginable, including:

• Electronics: Ensuring reliable bonds in circuit boards and delicate components.
• Automotive: Providing threadlockers, gasket sealants and bonding solutions that withstand heat, oil and vibration.
• Aerospace: Meeting stringent performance standards for safety and durability.
• Manufacturing: Supporting high-speed, high-precision assembly lines.
• DIY & Repair: Offering user-friendly products for home mechanics and hobbyists.

Loctite offers an incredibly wide range of solutions—including construction adhesives, specialty glues, spray adhesives, tapes, mounting putties and more—so whatever materials you're bonding or whichever industry you’re in, there’s a Loctite product that’s made for the job.

ConRo Electronics: Your Partner for Loctite Solutions

At ConRo Electronics, we’re proud to stock an ample selection of Loctite products to suit every application—from industrial adhesives for high-volume production lines to precision bonding solutions for the electronics sector. With over 20,000 products from more than 200 trusted brands, we offer same-day dispatch, expert advice, and full batch traceability as standard.

As Loctite is about to celebrate 70 years of adhesive innovation, there’s never been a better time to discover what makes this brand a true industry leader. Whether you’re already a Loctite loyalist or exploring Loctite for the first time, we invite you to visit Conro Electronics and browse our full range of industrial adhesive solutions. Let’s stick together for the next 70 years!

Feel free to contact us on 0208 953 1211 or send us an email to info@conro.com