structural

Structural adhesives play a key role in various industrial applications and everyday repairs. There are three main types: methacrylate adhesives, acrylic adhesives and epoxy adhesives. Each type has its own unique properties and applications.

Methacrylate adhesives
Methacrylate adhesives are two-part, chemically curable substances based on methyl methacrylate. They are characterised by

•         High strength: They achieve shear strength from 7 to 25 N/mm².
•         Chemical resistance: They are resistant to oil, moisture, water and UV radiation.
•         Wide range of applications: Ideal for bonding plastics, metals and in polyester glass laminate yacht and boat structures.

These adhesives do not require complicated surface preparation and can be applied with simple tools, making them easy to use.

Acrylic adhesives
Acrylic adhesives are also two-component, but their properties differ from those of methacrylates. They are characterised by

•         Good adhesion: They can bond a wide range of materials, including metals and plastics.
•         Flexibility: They offer greater flexibility than other types of adhesives, which is beneficial in applications subject to vibration.

Acrylic structural adhesives are often used in the construction and automotive industries due to their mechanical properties and resistance to temperature changes.

Epoxy Adhesives
Epoxy adhesives are renowned for their exceptional strength and chemical resistance. Their key features include

•         Two component formulation: Consist of an epoxy resin and a curing agent for strong bonds.
•         High mechanical strength: Ideal for bonding difficult-to-bond materials such as metals and glass.
•         Use in a wide range of industries: Widely used in the construction, automotive and electronics industries.

Epoxy adhesives offer excellent thermal stability, making them suitable for applications in harsh environments.

Choosing the right structural adhesive depends on the specific requirements of the application. Methacrylate adhesives are ideal for plastic and metal structures, acrylics offer flexibility and good adhesion, while epoxies provide superior strength and chemical resistance. The right choice of adhesive can make a significant difference to the durability and effectiveness of joints in a variety of projects.