This article examines the external events that have led to greater awareness of adhesives’ performance in the event of a fire, the standards and regulations that are being imposed, and the development of new fire-resistant materials.
Historically, fire resistance has not generally been a significant requirement when specifying adhesive systems. Recent incidents, however, indicate that this may soon change. These include events outside of the formulators’ arena, such as increased sensitivity to the performance of components in a fire, and events within the formulators’ arena, such as the development of flame-resistant additives.
Substrates with reactive groups available for bonding make chemical bonding easier to achieve, while substrates with nothing to react to make adhesion difficult.
October 1, 2005
Adhesive technology is equal parts chemistry and "black magic." The sheer number of available substrates makes it nearly impossible to test each adhesive on every type. However, by conducting tests on a selection of novel, or difficult-to-adhere-to, substrates, we can make inferences that may help narrow the choice of adhesives.
Water-based adhesive systems make inroads into traditional solventborne technology.
March 4, 2003
Contact adhesives based on polychloroprene exhibit performance advantages over alternative adhesive systems in a variety of related applications where quick, high-strength, permanent bonds are needed.
Analytical tools are now available to engineers and product designers challenged with the task of reducing the radiated noise and vibration levels of structures.
The radiated noise and vibration characteristics of manufactured goods are a common concern for most product designers as they strive to provide products that are "whisper quiet."
To answer our questions on the outlook for the industry, we leaned on members of our editorial advisory board and others representing raw material and equipment suppliers, adhesives manufacturing, product development, technical service, business management and consulting.
Tap into the expertise of an impressive group of professionals specializing in adhesives and sealants, ask them to predict the future for the industry, spice it up with their opinions on some hot topics, and you come up with a good read.