Key Insights
The North America construction chemicals market is projected for robust expansion, fueled by substantial infrastructure investments and a thriving residential construction sector. The market size was valued at 9113.9 million in the base year 2024. This dynamic growth trajectory is anticipated to continue through 2033, with an estimated Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 2.2. Key drivers include increased government funding for infrastructure modernization, growing demand for sustainable building materials, and advancements in high-performance construction chemicals. The market is witnessing a surge in innovative products emphasizing enhanced durability, energy efficiency, and environmental sustainability.
North America Construction Chemicals Industry Market Size (In Billion)
Segments like concrete admixtures are expected to experience significant growth, vital for improving construction project quality and longevity. The increasing adoption of green building practices is further stimulating demand for eco-friendly construction chemicals, creating key opportunities. While macroeconomic factors such as raw material price volatility may present challenges, the long-term outlook for the North America construction chemicals market remains highly positive, supported by sustained public and private sector investments.
North America Construction Chemicals Industry Company Market Share
North America Construction Chemicals Industry: A Comprehensive Market Report (2019-2033)
This comprehensive report provides an in-depth analysis of the North America construction chemicals industry, covering market size, growth trends, competitive landscape, and future prospects. The study period spans from 2019 to 2033, with 2025 serving as the base and estimated year. This report is essential for industry stakeholders, investors, and strategic decision-makers seeking actionable insights into this dynamic market.
North America Construction Chemicals Industry Market Concentration & Innovation
The North America construction chemicals market exhibits a moderately concentrated structure, with several multinational corporations holding significant market share. Key players like Henkel AG & Co KGaA, Saint-Gobain, RPM International Inc., Sika AG, and 3M dominate the landscape. However, smaller, specialized companies also contribute significantly, particularly in niche segments. Market share analysis reveals that the top five players collectively hold approximately xx% of the market, while the remaining xx% is shared among numerous regional and specialized firms. Recent mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity, such as Sika's acquisition of MBCC Group (excluding admixture operations) in May 2023 for an estimated value of xx Million, highlights the ongoing consolidation within the industry. This deal, valued at xx Million, significantly reshaped the competitive landscape, particularly in waterproofing and repair & rehabilitation chemicals. Other significant M&A activities are reflected in the overall market concentration trend.
Innovation within the sector is driven by several factors:
- Sustainability: Growing demand for eco-friendly and high-performance products with reduced environmental impact.
- Technological Advancements: Development of advanced materials with enhanced durability, strength, and functionality.
- Stringent Regulations: Compliance with increasingly stricter environmental and safety regulations.
- Improved Construction Techniques: Need for products that support faster construction timelines and improved efficiency.
The regulatory environment plays a crucial role, influencing product development and market access. Product substitutes, such as alternative building materials and traditional methods, pose competitive challenges, driving innovation in cost-effectiveness and performance. End-user trends, including a preference for sustainable and technologically advanced products, are shaping product development strategies.
North America Construction Chemicals Industry Industry Trends & Insights
The North America construction chemicals market is experiencing significant growth, driven by robust infrastructure development, rising residential construction activity, and increasing demand for commercial and industrial buildings. The market is projected to achieve a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of xx% during the forecast period (2025-2033), reaching a market value of xx Million by 2033. This growth is fueled by several key factors:
- Government Investment in Infrastructure: Increased spending on infrastructure projects across North America is creating a substantial demand for construction chemicals.
- Urbanization and Population Growth: Rapid urbanization and population growth are boosting residential and commercial construction, thereby stimulating demand.
- Technological Innovations: Advancements in materials science are leading to the development of high-performance construction chemicals with improved properties and functionalities.
- Focus on Sustainability: Growing awareness of environmental concerns is driving demand for eco-friendly construction chemicals.
Market penetration of advanced construction chemicals remains relatively high in specific segments but varies significantly across product types and end-use sectors. Increased adoption of advanced materials and technologies is anticipated to drive future market growth. Competitive dynamics are characterized by intense competition among established players and emerging innovative companies. Price competition, product differentiation, and technological advancements are crucial factors shaping the competitive landscape.
Dominant Markets & Segments in North America Construction Chemicals Industry
The Infrastructure segment commands the largest share within the End-Use Sector, driven by significant governmental investments in infrastructure projects throughout North America. The Residential segment shows considerable growth potential owing to the expanding housing market and population growth. The Commercial and Industrial segment consistently displays robust demand, driven by increasing commercial and industrial construction activity.
Among product types, Adhesives, Sealants, and Waterproofing Systems enjoy the highest demand due to their extensive use in various construction activities. Repair and Rehabilitation Chemicals are gaining momentum owing to the rising need for maintaining and restoring aging infrastructure.
Key Drivers for Infrastructure Dominance:
- Significant government investment in infrastructure projects (roads, bridges, and utilities).
- Aging infrastructure requiring repair and rehabilitation.
- Large-scale infrastructure development projects.
Key Drivers for Residential Segment Growth:
- Rising population and urbanization.
- Increased housing demand.
- Government initiatives supporting affordable housing.
Key Drivers for Commercial and Industrial Segment Growth:
- Expansion of industrial and commercial sectors.
- Construction of new factories, warehouses, and office buildings.
- Renovation and expansion of existing commercial structures.
North America Construction Chemicals Industry Product Developments
Recent product innovations are focused on developing high-performance, sustainable, and user-friendly construction chemicals. This includes advancements in self-leveling flooring systems, high-strength adhesives, and eco-friendly waterproofing membranes. Technological trends towards advanced materials science and nanotechnology are enabling the development of products with improved properties, such as enhanced durability, flexibility, and resistance to chemicals and environmental factors. These innovations aim to provide superior performance, improve construction efficiency, and meet growing sustainability requirements, thereby enhancing market fit and competitiveness.
Report Scope & Segmentation Analysis
This report segments the North America construction chemicals market based on end-use sector (Commercial, Industrial & Institutional, Infrastructure, Residential) and product type (Adhesives, Membranes, Sealants, Repair and Rehabilitation Chemicals, Coatings, Waterproofing Systems, Flooring Systems). Each segment's growth projection, market size, and competitive dynamics are thoroughly analyzed, providing granular insights into market performance. For instance, the Infrastructure segment shows strong growth due to substantial government spending, while the Residential sector is boosted by increasing housing demand. Similarly, Adhesives and Sealants enjoy high demand due to their broad application across construction activities. The report offers detailed breakdowns of individual segments, analyzing their growth trajectories, market sizes, and competitive landscapes.
Key Drivers of North America Construction Chemicals Industry Growth
Several key factors drive the growth of the North America construction chemicals industry:
- Robust Infrastructure Development: Government initiatives and private investment in infrastructure projects are stimulating demand for construction chemicals.
- Residential Construction Boom: Increasing population and urbanization are driving the need for new housing, boosting demand for construction chemicals in residential projects.
- Technological Advancements: The development of innovative construction chemicals with superior performance, durability, and sustainability is driving market growth.
- Stringent Building Codes: Compliance with increasingly stringent building codes and safety standards is driving the adoption of advanced construction chemicals.
Challenges in the North America Construction Chemicals Industry Sector
The North America construction chemicals industry faces several challenges:
- Fluctuating Raw Material Prices: Volatility in the prices of raw materials can significantly impact production costs and profitability.
- Supply Chain Disruptions: Global supply chain issues can impact the timely availability of raw materials and finished products.
- Intense Competition: The market is characterized by intense competition among established players and emerging companies.
- Environmental Regulations: Compliance with increasingly stringent environmental regulations can pose challenges for manufacturers.
Emerging Opportunities in North America Construction Chemicals Industry
Several emerging opportunities exist within the North America construction chemicals industry:
- Growing Demand for Sustainable Products: The increasing focus on sustainability presents opportunities for manufacturers to develop and market eco-friendly construction chemicals.
- Technological Advancements: Emerging technologies, such as 3D printing and advanced materials, offer opportunities to develop innovative construction chemicals.
- Infrastructure Development: Investments in infrastructure projects create significant opportunities for construction chemical manufacturers.
- Expansion into New Markets: Exploring new geographical markets and niche applications can drive growth for companies.
Leading Players in the North America Construction Chemicals Industry Market
- Henkel AG & Co KGaA
- Five Star Products Inc
- Arkema
- Saint-Gobain
- RPM International Inc.
- MBCC Group
- LATICRETE International Inc
- 3M
- Dow
- H B Fuller Company
- CEMEX S A B de C V
- Ardex Group
- MAPEI S p A
- Sika AG
- Standard Industries Inc
Key Developments in North America Construction Chemicals Industry Industry
- May 2023: Sika acquired MBCC Group (excluding admixture operations), significantly altering market share and product offerings.
- April 2023: Flowcrete (RPM International Inc.) extended the shelf life of its epoxy flooring resins, improving product management and potentially reducing waste.
- March 2023: Sika AG divested its MBCC admixture assets, focusing its resources on other segments of the MBCC Group acquisition.
Strategic Outlook for North America Construction Chemicals Industry Market
The North America construction chemicals market is poised for continued growth, driven by strong infrastructure development, expanding housing markets, and technological innovations. The focus on sustainability and the development of high-performance products will be key drivers of future market potential. Opportunities exist for companies to capitalize on these trends by investing in research and development, expanding product lines, and adopting sustainable manufacturing practices. The continued consolidation of the market through M&A activity will likely shape the competitive landscape in the coming years.
North America Construction Chemicals Industry Segmentation
-
1. End Use Sector
- 1.1. Commercial
- 1.2. Industrial and Institutional
- 1.3. Infrastructure
- 1.4. Residential
-
2. Product
-
2.1. Adhesives
-
2.1.1. By Sub Product
- 2.1.1.1. Hot Melt
- 2.1.1.2. Reactive
- 2.1.1.3. Solvent-borne
- 2.1.1.4. Water-borne
-
2.1.1. By Sub Product
-
2.2. Anchors and Grouts
- 2.2.1. Cementitious Fixing
- 2.2.2. Resin Fixing
- 2.2.3. Other Types
-
2.3. Concrete Admixtures
- 2.3.1. Accelerator
- 2.3.2. Air Entraining Admixture
- 2.3.3. High Range Water Reducer (Super Plasticizer)
- 2.3.4. Retarder
- 2.3.5. Shrinkage Reducing Admixture
- 2.3.6. Viscosity Modifier
- 2.3.7. Water Reducer (Plasticizer)
-
2.4. Concrete Protective Coatings
- 2.4.1. Acrylic
- 2.4.2. Alkyd
- 2.4.3. Epoxy
- 2.4.4. Polyurethane
- 2.4.5. Other Resin Types
-
2.5. Flooring Resins
- 2.5.1. Polyaspartic
-
2.6. Repair and Rehabilitation Chemicals
- 2.6.1. Fiber Wrapping Systems
- 2.6.2. Injection Grouting Materials
- 2.6.3. Micro-concrete Mortars
- 2.6.4. Modified Mortars
- 2.6.5. Rebar Protectors
-
2.7. Sealants
- 2.7.1. Silicone
-
2.8. Surface Treatment Chemicals
- 2.8.1. Curing Compounds
- 2.8.2. Mold Release Agents
- 2.8.3. Other Product Types
-
2.9. Waterproofing Solutions
- 2.9.1. Membranes
-
2.1. Adhesives
North America Construction Chemicals Industry Segmentation By Geography
-
1. North America
- 1.1. United States
- 1.2. Canada
- 1.3. Mexico
North America Construction Chemicals Industry Regional Market Share
Geographic Coverage of North America Construction Chemicals Industry
North America Construction Chemicals Industry REPORT HIGHLIGHTS
| Aspects | Details |
|---|---|
| Study Period | 2020-2034 |
| Base Year | 2025 |
| Estimated Year | 2026 |
| Forecast Period | 2026-2034 |
| Historical Period | 2020-2025 |
| Growth Rate | CAGR of 2.2% from 2020-2034 |
| Segmentation |
|
Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 1.1. Research Scope
- 1.2. Market Segmentation
- 1.3. Research Methodology
- 1.4. Definitions and Assumptions
- 2. Executive Summary
- 2.1. Introduction
- 3. Market Dynamics
- 3.1. Introduction
- 3.2. Market Drivers
- 3.2.1. ; Banning/ Limiting Use of Plastics used in packaging applications
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. ; Harmful Amines in Dyes; Paperless Green Initiatives
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. OTHER KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS COVERED IN THE REPORT
- 4. Market Factor Analysis
- 4.1. Porters Five Forces
- 4.2. Supply/Value Chain
- 4.3. PESTEL analysis
- 4.4. Market Entropy
- 4.5. Patent/Trademark Analysis
- 5. North America Construction Chemicals Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2020-2032
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End Use Sector
- 5.1.1. Commercial
- 5.1.2. Industrial and Institutional
- 5.1.3. Infrastructure
- 5.1.4. Residential
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product
- 5.2.1. Adhesives
- 5.2.1.1. By Sub Product
- 5.2.1.1.1. Hot Melt
- 5.2.1.1.2. Reactive
- 5.2.1.1.3. Solvent-borne
- 5.2.1.1.4. Water-borne
- 5.2.1.1. By Sub Product
- 5.2.2. Anchors and Grouts
- 5.2.2.1. Cementitious Fixing
- 5.2.2.2. Resin Fixing
- 5.2.2.3. Other Types
- 5.2.3. Concrete Admixtures
- 5.2.3.1. Accelerator
- 5.2.3.2. Air Entraining Admixture
- 5.2.3.3. High Range Water Reducer (Super Plasticizer)
- 5.2.3.4. Retarder
- 5.2.3.5. Shrinkage Reducing Admixture
- 5.2.3.6. Viscosity Modifier
- 5.2.3.7. Water Reducer (Plasticizer)
- 5.2.4. Concrete Protective Coatings
- 5.2.4.1. Acrylic
- 5.2.4.2. Alkyd
- 5.2.4.3. Epoxy
- 5.2.4.4. Polyurethane
- 5.2.4.5. Other Resin Types
- 5.2.5. Flooring Resins
- 5.2.5.1. Polyaspartic
- 5.2.6. Repair and Rehabilitation Chemicals
- 5.2.6.1. Fiber Wrapping Systems
- 5.2.6.2. Injection Grouting Materials
- 5.2.6.3. Micro-concrete Mortars
- 5.2.6.4. Modified Mortars
- 5.2.6.5. Rebar Protectors
- 5.2.7. Sealants
- 5.2.7.1. Silicone
- 5.2.8. Surface Treatment Chemicals
- 5.2.8.1. Curing Compounds
- 5.2.8.2. Mold Release Agents
- 5.2.8.3. Other Product Types
- 5.2.9. Waterproofing Solutions
- 5.2.9.1. Membranes
- 5.2.1. Adhesives
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.3.1. North America
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End Use Sector
- 6. Competitive Analysis
- 6.1. Market Share Analysis 2025
- 6.2. Company Profiles
- 6.2.1 Henkel AG & Co KGaA
- 6.2.1.1. Overview
- 6.2.1.2. Products
- 6.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.2 Five Star Products Inc
- 6.2.2.1. Overview
- 6.2.2.2. Products
- 6.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.3 Arkema
- 6.2.3.1. Overview
- 6.2.3.2. Products
- 6.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.4 Saint-Gobain
- 6.2.4.1. Overview
- 6.2.4.2. Products
- 6.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.5 RPM International Inc
- 6.2.5.1. Overview
- 6.2.5.2. Products
- 6.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.6 MBCC Group
- 6.2.6.1. Overview
- 6.2.6.2. Products
- 6.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.7 LATICRETE International Inc
- 6.2.7.1. Overview
- 6.2.7.2. Products
- 6.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.8 3M
- 6.2.8.1. Overview
- 6.2.8.2. Products
- 6.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.9 Dow
- 6.2.9.1. Overview
- 6.2.9.2. Products
- 6.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.10 H B Fuller Company
- 6.2.10.1. Overview
- 6.2.10.2. Products
- 6.2.10.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.10.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.10.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.11 CEMEX S A B de C V
- 6.2.11.1. Overview
- 6.2.11.2. Products
- 6.2.11.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.11.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.11.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.12 Ardex Group
- 6.2.12.1. Overview
- 6.2.12.2. Products
- 6.2.12.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.12.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.12.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.13 MAPEI S p A
- 6.2.13.1. Overview
- 6.2.13.2. Products
- 6.2.13.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.13.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.13.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.14 Sika AG
- 6.2.14.1. Overview
- 6.2.14.2. Products
- 6.2.14.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.14.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.14.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.15 Standard Industries Inc
- 6.2.15.1. Overview
- 6.2.15.2. Products
- 6.2.15.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.15.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.15.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.1 Henkel AG & Co KGaA
List of Figures
- Figure 1: North America Construction Chemicals Industry Revenue Breakdown (million, %) by Product 2025 & 2033
- Figure 2: North America Construction Chemicals Industry Share (%) by Company 2025
List of Tables
- Table 1: North America Construction Chemicals Industry Revenue million Forecast, by End Use Sector 2020 & 2033
- Table 2: North America Construction Chemicals Industry Volume K Tons Forecast, by End Use Sector 2020 & 2033
- Table 3: North America Construction Chemicals Industry Revenue million Forecast, by Product 2020 & 2033
- Table 4: North America Construction Chemicals Industry Volume K Tons Forecast, by Product 2020 & 2033
- Table 5: North America Construction Chemicals Industry Revenue million Forecast, by Region 2020 & 2033
- Table 6: North America Construction Chemicals Industry Volume K Tons Forecast, by Region 2020 & 2033
- Table 7: North America Construction Chemicals Industry Revenue million Forecast, by End Use Sector 2020 & 2033
- Table 8: North America Construction Chemicals Industry Volume K Tons Forecast, by End Use Sector 2020 & 2033
- Table 9: North America Construction Chemicals Industry Revenue million Forecast, by Product 2020 & 2033
- Table 10: North America Construction Chemicals Industry Volume K Tons Forecast, by Product 2020 & 2033
- Table 11: North America Construction Chemicals Industry Revenue million Forecast, by Country 2020 & 2033
- Table 12: North America Construction Chemicals Industry Volume K Tons Forecast, by Country 2020 & 2033
- Table 13: United States North America Construction Chemicals Industry Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 14: United States North America Construction Chemicals Industry Volume (K Tons) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 15: Canada North America Construction Chemicals Industry Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 16: Canada North America Construction Chemicals Industry Volume (K Tons) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 17: Mexico North America Construction Chemicals Industry Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 18: Mexico North America Construction Chemicals Industry Volume (K Tons) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the North America Construction Chemicals Industry?
The projected CAGR is approximately 2.2%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the North America Construction Chemicals Industry?
Key companies in the market include Henkel AG & Co KGaA, Five Star Products Inc, Arkema, Saint-Gobain, RPM International Inc, MBCC Group, LATICRETE International Inc, 3M, Dow, H B Fuller Company, CEMEX S A B de C V, Ardex Group, MAPEI S p A, Sika AG, Standard Industries Inc.
3. What are the main segments of the North America Construction Chemicals Industry?
The market segments include End Use Sector, Product.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD 9113.9 million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
; Banning/ Limiting Use of Plastics used in packaging applications.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
OTHER KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS COVERED IN THE REPORT.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
; Harmful Amines in Dyes; Paperless Green Initiatives.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
May 2023: Sika, a global leader in construction chemicals, acquired the MBCC Group, including its waterproofing solutions, anchors & grouts, flooring resins, repair & rehabilitation chemicals, and other businesses, with the exception of its concrete admixture operations in Europe, North America, Australia, and New Zealand.April 2023: Flowcrete, a subsidiary of RPM International Inc., announced that it has extended the shelf life of its epoxy flooring resin products, which can now be stored for an extra 12 months from the previously specified dates without compromising their quality or performance.March 2023: Sika AG announced its plan to divest its MBCC admixture assets to Cinven, a global private equity firm, as part of its strategy to secure full ownership of MBCC Group.
9. What pricing options are available for accessing the report?
Pricing options include single-user, multi-user, and enterprise licenses priced at USD 3800, USD 4500, and USD 5800 respectively.
10. Is the market size provided in terms of value or volume?
The market size is provided in terms of value, measured in million and volume, measured in K Tons.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "North America Construction Chemicals Industry," which aids in identifying and referencing the specific market segment covered.
12. How do I determine which pricing option suits my needs best?
The pricing options vary based on user requirements and access needs. Individual users may opt for single-user licenses, while businesses requiring broader access may choose multi-user or enterprise licenses for cost-effective access to the report.
13. Are there any additional resources or data provided in the North America Construction Chemicals Industry report?
While the report offers comprehensive insights, it's advisable to review the specific contents or supplementary materials provided to ascertain if additional resources or data are available.
14. How can I stay updated on further developments or reports in the North America Construction Chemicals Industry?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the North America Construction Chemicals Industry, consider subscribing to industry newsletters, following relevant companies and organizations, or regularly checking reputable industry news sources and publications.
Methodology
Step 1 - Identification of Relevant Samples Size from Population Database
Step 2 - Approaches for Defining Global Market Size (Value, Volume* & Price*)
Note*: In applicable scenarios
Step 3 - Data Sources
Primary Research
- Web Analytics
- Survey Reports
- Research Institute
- Latest Research Reports
- Opinion Leaders
Secondary Research
- Annual Reports
- White Paper
- Latest Press Release
- Industry Association
- Paid Database
- Investor Presentations
Step 4 - Data Triangulation
Involves using different sources of information in order to increase the validity of a study
These sources are likely to be stakeholders in a program - participants, other researchers, program staff, other community members, and so on.
Then we put all data in single framework & apply various statistical tools to find out the dynamic on the market.
During the analysis stage, feedback from the stakeholder groups would be compared to determine areas of agreement as well as areas of divergence