Structural Adhesives for Rapid Cure Applications

Use of structural adhesives on automotive assembly lines requires systems compatible with a variety of metal and polymer substrates, minimal surface preparation and short cure or part handling times. Various types of structural adhesives have been considered in relation to the above needs. Some adhesive types bond well to unprepared surfaces, but all give improved performance with proper surface treatment. Host structural adhesives need temperatures ranging from 65°C (150°F) to as high as 230°C (450°F) to give the desired short cure times. Good bond strengths can be achieved under such cure conditions. New modified acrylic adhesives show promise for fast cure use at ambient temperatures.