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There are several contact adhesive types on the market. They include:
Solvent-based contact adhesives
These adhesives are made by dissolving a rubber polymer in a volatile solvent such as acetone, toluene, or MEK (methyl ethyl ketone). These adhesives are suitable for bonding non-porous materials like metal, wood, leather, and plastic. This is due to their strong, flexible bond and resistance to water. The downside is that they can be harmful if inhaled.
Water-based contact adhesives
These adhesives are made by dispersing a polymer in water. They are used broadly to bond similar or dissimilar surfaces. This is because they are less flammable and have less odor than solvent-based contact adhesives. Unfortunately, their bond strength is weaker, making them ideal for porous surfaces like paper, cardboard, foam, and wood. They are also safer for the environment.
Neoprene-based contact adhesives
This type of adhesive is formulated with neoprene rubber, providing good resistance to heat, water, and chemicals. It is best suited for bonding materials such as laminates, plywood, and leather. It is also effective in areas that require flexibility or exposure to harsh environments. Though it is more expensive than other options, its durability and performance make up for it.
Acrylic-based contact adhesives
Acrylic-based contact adhesives are known for their high resistance to UV light, heat, and aging. This makes them ideal for outdoor and high-temperature applications. While they provide a strong bond to a variety of materials, such as plastics, metals, and wood, they are slower to set than solvent-based adhesives. This gives a more flexible bond that maintains its strength even under rigorous conditions.
Hot melt contact adhesives
These adhesives are typically applied using a hot glue gun or an industrial adhesive applicator. They are ideal for bonding materials such as wood, paper, and fabric. They work best with porous surfaces and offer a quick set time, making them suitable for production environments where speed is necessary. Their resistance to moisture and heat is adjustable based on formulation, making them versatile for different applications.
SBR-based contact adhesives
These are made from styrene-butadiene rubber and are commonly used for low-cost applications. They are effective for bonding surfaces like veneer to wood or laminate to particleboard. Although they are less durable and less resistant to heat and moisture compared to neoprene or acrylic-based adhesives, they offer a good initial bond for many light to medium-duty tasks.
Contact adhesive composition varies based on its intended use and formulation. It usually consists of the following components:
Elastomers
These are the rubbery polymers that give the adhesive its elastic properties. They allow the bonded materials to move or flex without breaking the bond. Different types of elastomers are used according to the required strength and flexibility. They include natural rubber, synthetic isoprene rubber, neoprene, and acrylic polymers.
Solvents
Solvent-based contact adhesives contain volatile solvents. These are used to dissolve the elastomers. The solvents evaporate once the adhesive is applied and the surfaces are pressed together. Toluene, acetone, and MEK are some of the common solvents used. For water-based contact adhesives, water is the primary carrier, making them less flammable and more environmentally friendly.
Resins and tackifiers
These are added to increase the viscosity and improve the bonding characteristics of the adhesive. Tackifiers enhance the 'tack' or stickiness of the adhesive, allowing it to bond even when applied lightly. This is particularly useful for porous surfaces.
Additives
Contact adhesives may contain various additives to improve their properties. These include anti-aging agents to prevent the adhesive from degrading over time, fillers to adjust viscosity, and stabilizers to prevent the elastomers from separating.
Plasticizers
These are incorporated to increase the flexibility and workability of the adhesive. They make the adhesive more pliable, which helps maintain bond strength even under a rigorous material flex or temperature changes. Common plasticizers used in contact adhesives are phthalates and other organic esters.
Contact cement has multiple applications in various industries. Here are some of its common uses:
Laminate installation
It is used in attaching plastic laminates to substrates such as particleboard, MDF, and plywood in countertops, cabinets, and furniture. Its ability to provide an immediate bond with long-lasting strength makes it ideal for this purpose.
Footwear manufacturing
In the shoe industry, contact cement is used to bond soles to uppers. It is also used to attach different components together, such as lining and insoles. This is because it creates a strong, flexible, and durable bond that can withstand the varying stresses of wear.
Upholstery work
Contact adhesive is broadly used to attach fabrics to foam padding in furniture upholstery. It is also used to bond vinyl and leather to various surfaces. These adhesives give a quick bond with the capability to retain shape and resist peeling.
Woodworking applications
Contact adhesives are used for veneer bonding. They include edge banding, as well as bonding plywood and other materials. Woodworkers and carpenters use them where a strong, even bond is essential, particularly for surfaces that are hard to clamp.
Automotive applications
They are used in the automotive industry to attach headliners, door panels, and upholstery. They are also used for bonding trim pieces and other components. In these cases, a strong bond that can tolerate movement and varying temperatures is crucial.
Craft and DIY projects
Contact adhesives are popular in crafting for attaching materials like paper, cardboard, and leather. With their versatility, they are also suitable for DIY home repair and improvement projects. Their quick bonding capability comes in handy, especially in non-porous surface bonding.
Industrial applications
They are utilized in the production of composite materials. These include bonded assemblies where dissimilar materials, such as metal and wood, require strong adhesion. They are also used for mounting abrasives to tools and equipment.
Marine applications
Contact adhesives are used in boat construction and repair. For instance, they bond parts of the interior, such as seats and decks, and attach laminates.
Choosing the right contact cement for a specific application involves multiple factors. They include:
Application and Material Compatibility
Put into consideration the materials to be bonded. For instance, contact adhesives for plastic laminate countertops should offer a high degree of bond and be easy to work with. If the project is woodworking, pick contact adhesives that bond wood to veneer. For fabric or leather projects, use an adhesive that is specially designed for such materials.
Bond strength
The required bond strength depends on the application. If the bond is for lightweight materials like paper or foam, consider adhesives with a moderate bond suitable for their delicate nature. For heavy-duty applications like cabinetry and footwear, choose an adhesive that forms a super strong bond. Also consider whether the bonded joint will need to be flexible or rigid. Use flexible ones for applications like footwear. Rigid ones are ideal for applications like automotive assembly where the bond might be under stress.
Environmental resistance
Assess the environmental factors the bond will encounter. If it will be exposed to moisture or outdoor elements, select an adhesive that is moisture and UV resistant. For items that will be subject to heat or chemical exposure, go for high-temperature resistant adhesives. Water-based contact adhesives are typically used for indoor applications. They are exposure to light and low temperature surfaces.
Viscosity and formulation
Contact cement viscosity can impact application. Those with high viscosity are ideal for filling gaps and are typically applied in thick coats. Meanwhile, the low ones provide a thin, even film that might be necessary for lighter materials. Formulation aids in determining the application method. For instance, some are designed for brush application while others come in spray cans or require roll-on.
Set and cure time
Know the set and cure time for the contact cement. If seeking a quick bond, go for those with fast set times. Slow-cure adhesives give more time for adjustment when bonding materials.
Safety and application conditions
Be sure to consider safety data sheets for the contact cement. These offer vital information on flammability, disposal, and personal protective equipment. Opt for low-odor and less hazardous formulations if working in enclosed spaces or areas with heavy traffic. Lastly, consider the ease of application, especially for big projects needing extensive surface preparation.
Contact adhesive is suitable for both porous and non-porous surfaces, especially when bonding two different materials. It is commonly used in woodworking, upholstery, and construction. It is ideal for laminating surfaces such as countertops, cabinets, and furniture where a strong, even bond is needed.
Yes, they are the same. However, contact cement is a specific type of adhesive. The difference lies in the application method and how the bond is formed. Contact cement is applied to both surfaces, allowed to become tacky, and then pressed together to create an instant bond.
Yes, it works perfectly. However, ensure that the plastic surface is properly prepared and cleaned for optimal results. This allows the adhesive to bond effectively and brings about improved bond strength.
Yes, contact adhesive is commonly used to bond rubber to itself or to other materials. It is particularly useful in applications such as sealing, gaskets, and footwear where a strong, flexible bond is needed. It is ideal for rubber components that undergo constant movement or changes in shape.
