Use of Controlled-Stress Rheology to Qualify and Predict Adhesive Performance
The mechanical and rheological properties of pressure sensitive adhesives (PSAs) will dictate the long-range performance of the adhesive. Tack and peel behavior and shear resistance have historically been measured to determine and/or predict the performance of PSAs, and to engineer their properties as well.
Historical tests (180? peel, loop tack, etc.) have been very effective in measuring relative properties of various adhesives, but these tests often suffer from a lack of precision and reproducibility. In addition, the results can be significantly influenced by operator bias. In this article, controlled-stress rheology is presented as an effective tool in the evaluation and prediction of PSA performance. Tack and peel qualities can be directly and quantitatively measured and compared. The use of time-temperature superposition can extend the measurable range of the instrument and assist in long-term product performance.