What do discoloured wallpapers, a former VSM apprentice and the adhesion of the emery to the backing have in common? They all led to the invention of wallpaper paste.

During his apprenticeship at VSM, Ferdinand Sichel became aware of the complex processing of animal adhesives and bonding agents in the production of abrasives. He was already well aware of this problem from his parents’ company, a company for wallpaper and chalk paints. The animal-based raw materials had to be elaborately boiled and used quickly. They were also not waterproof.

These experiences prompted Ferdinand Sichel to invent new glues that were easier to work with. He developed Sichel paint adhesive using plant starch as a base. VSM also benefited from Sichel’s motivation to invent. Now we had access to new adhesives and bonding agents made from plant-based materials. They could also be processed cold, did not spoil and were quickly ready for use.

This is how wallpaper paste was invented in Hanover. An early technical innovation to which VSM also contributed.