What are the Different Types of Plastic Adhesive?

Different types of plastic adhesives like epoxy, resins, acrylics, silicones and hot-melt adhesive are regularly used for bonding plastics, metals, glass and a host of other purposes. They are used to address creative, assembly, maintenance and repair concerns in craft, construction, manufacturing and engineering applications. Such plastic adhesive use is notable for having high bonding strength, good insulation properties, and excellent resistance to impact, heat and chemicals. The plastic adhesive products can be purchased in ready to use packs, containers, glue gun cartridges and syringes.

As a plastic adhesive can be pretty strong, it is important to read and understand the instructions on their labels prior to use. Some types of plastic adhesive are available in solid, semi-solid, viscous or liquid forms. Some adhesives are water-based, while others require careful handling as they are to be mixed with organic solvents.

Epoxy adhesives, perhaps the strongest of all adhesives, is used to build planes, vehicles and sports equipment. It is a waterproof, solvent-less adhesive that, in addition to its strength, has the additional benefit of being very durable and resistant to heat and chemicals. It can be cured by heat treatment and does not shrink much in the process. Epoxy comes in two parts, a resin and a hardener, and these must be mixed before use.

Hot-melt adhesive is a solid adhesive made from thermoplastic resins. It comes in a solid or semi-solid form and does not need to be mixed with an organic solvent. It is first melted by heating, then applied in a coat where required, and then it adheres to that surface as it cools and hardens. Hot-melt adhesive is used in putting together electrical parts, automotive parts and packing cartons.

Cyanoacrylate, better known as super glue, is a water-resistant plastic adhesive that is known to bond well with metals amongst other things; it does not, however, work well with smooth glass. Super glue can be used to glue a range of items like electronics, model crafts, corals and ballerina's shoes. It has been found effective in repairing skin and bone and closing wounds in both humans and animals.

While plastic adhesive products can be highly useful, they may have some health-related drawbacks. They may give off strong fumes that lead to eye and skin irritations. Carrying out plastic adhesive application is a well-ventilated area and wearing protective skin covering can certainly prove to be helpful.