A/B/C/D/E/F/G/H/I/K/L/M/N/O/P/R/S/T/U/V/W/Y/Z
A
Abrasion Resistance
The protection provided by adhesive or sealant from the physical wear and tear caused by rubbing or scraping. Adhesives with a high abrasion resistance are suitable for applications such as flooring, automotive components, and textiles.
Accelerator
To speed up the process of curing and improve adhesion, a material is added to an adhesive and sealant. Accelerators can be chemical compounds, ultraviolet light, or heat.
Acrylic Adhesive
The extract gained from acrylic resins formulates an adhesive that bonds well to both porous and non-porous surfaces. It is often used in woodworking applications due to its flexibility and excellent adhesion properties.
Acrylic Elastomeric Sealants
Acrylic polymers contribute to making a type of sealant that supplies flexibility and elasticity. It is often used for sealing openings in brickwork, concrete, and other building materials.
Activator
A substance used in conjunction with a primer to increase the adhesion of an adhesive or sealant. Activators can be chemical compounds, ultraviolet light, or heat.
Adhesive
Material to bind two surfaces together. Adhesives are usually made from polymers and can be applied in liquid form or as a solid film.
Aggregate
The filler material has a kind that is added to an adhesive or sealant to improve performance and reduce costs. Aggregates can include sand, clay, mica, glass fibers, and other materials.
Aliphatic Resin
To keep flexibility and strength, a type of synthetic resin is used as an adhesive for woodworking applications. It is also resistant to UV light and moisture.
Anaerobic Adhesive
The absence of oxygen cures this adhesive. It is often used to bond metal components because it forms a strong, water-resistant bond.
Anionic Adhesive
An adhesive that has an electrically negative charge. It is often used for bonding plastic parts because it is resistant to high temperatures and chemical solvents.
Anisotropic Conductive Film (ACF)
To connect the two surfaces electrically a kind of film is used. The film contains conductive particles which form the electrical connection when heated or pressed together.
Antifoam Agent
The reduction in form formation during application and curing is done by adding a material to an adhesive. Antifoam agents are typically silicon-based compounds.
Aqueous Adhesive
Through water and synthetic resins an adhesive is achieved that is designed to bond porous materials such as paper, cardboard, or fabrics.
Atomized Adhesive
The composition of an adhesive that holds tiny particles suspended in a solvent or gas which can be applied with a sprayer or atomizer. Atomized adhesives are often used for applications that require a thin layer of adhesive.
Auxiliary Adhesive
An adhesive is used to improve the bonding properties of another adhesive. Auxiliary adhesives can be applied before or after the primary adhesive and can provide additional strength, flexibility, heat resistance, or other beneficial characteristics.
Auto-Adhesion
The ability of an adhesive to bond to itself without the use of an activator or primer. Auto-Adhesion is typically found in hot-melt adhesives and some silicone-based adhesives.
B
Binder
A material used to adhere two surfaces together. These materials can be either natural or synthetic and typically include latex, rubber, acrylics, animal glues, epoxies, silicones, and polyurethanes.
Blocking
Blocking occurs when two glued surfaces stick together during storage. This is usually caused by the glue not curing properly and/or inadequate drying prior to storing the adhesive-bonded item.
Boil Test
A test of determining a glue’s strength using a boiling water bath. Usually involves placing the bonded pieces into boiling water for a prescribed period of time before removing them to assess the bond integrity.
Brush Grade Glue
Glue is specially formulated to be brushed onto surfaces with a brush, rather than spread by other means. Its advantages usually include ease of application and easy cleanup.
Butyl Rubber
A type of synthetic rubber used in some adhesives for its flexibility, strength, and resistance to temperature extremes. It is often used in automotive and aerospace applications.
C
Cementitious Adhesive
A type of adhesive made from cement, sand, and water that is designed to bond porous materials such as brickwork or concrete blocks.
Contact Adhesive
An adhesive form a strong bond when two surfaces come into contact with one another. Contact adhesives are typically applied to both surfaces which are then pressed together for an immediate bond.
Contact Cement
A type of adhesive made up of synthetic rubbers and resins with a strong, fast-drying bond. It’s usually used for bonding materials like laminates, rubber, plastic, and leather.
Copolymer Adhesive
To form a single product an adhesive is made from two different types of polymer resins that have been blended together. Copolymer adhesives have increased flexibility and strength compared to other types of adhesives.
Cross-linking Agent
A material added to an adhesive or sealant helps to harden and strengthen the material by creating a three-dimensional network within the product. Cross-linking agents can also improve the water-resistance of a formulation.
Curing
The process of allowing an adhesive to fully dry and form its strongest bond between two surfaces. This is usually done by using heat or light to speed the curing process.
Cyanoacrylate Adhesive
Also known as super glue or Krazy Glue, this adhesive contains cyanoacrylate monomers that quickly polymerize when exposed to water vapor in the air. It bonds almost instantly and forms very strong bonds between materials like plastic, metal, wood, and even human skin.
D
Diluent
A liquid is used to thin or reduce the viscosity of a glue. Examples of diluents include water, alcohol, and glycol ethers.
Dispersion Adhesive
Synthetic resins that are suspended in a solvent or water to produce an adhesive. Dispersion adhesives provide excellent adhesion and flexibility and can be used for bonding porous materials such as paper, cardboard, fabric, or foam.
Drag Test
A performance test in which two bonded panels are pulled apart by hand while counting the number of pulls it takes the bond to break. This is done to measure adhesion strength and typically requires a visual inspection of the failure site for further evaluation.
Dual-Cure Adhesives
An adhesive that cures through both chemical and UV/visible light curing processes. These types of adhesives offer increased flexibility when it comes to curing as they can be either air-dried or cured using an external source such as a UV lamp.
Durability
The ability of an adhesive to maintain its properties over a period of time, typically measured in years or decades. Durability is especially important for adhesives that will be used for long-term applications such as product assembly and structural bonding.
E
Elastomeric Adhesive
The elastic properties of an adhesive can stretch and conform to surfaces without losing form or shape. Elastomeric adhesives are often used for applications requiring flexibility, vibration dampening, or impact resistance.
Emulsion Adhesive
The two incompatible liquids form an adhesive that is blended together with an emulsifying agent. Emulsion adhesives are typically used for bonding paper, wood veneers, fabrics, and other porous materials.
Epoxy Adhesive
An adhesive is composed of two components – a resin and a hardener – that are mixed together prior to application and then react with each other during the curing process in order to form a strong bond between two surfaces.
F
Flexibilizer
A chemical additive is used to reduce the stiffness of a cured glue bond in order to increase its flexibility. Flexibilizers are typically used in applications requiring movement or bending such as gaskets, sealing, and vibration dampening.
Foam Adhesive
An adhesive with an expanded foam structure that is used to fill gaps between two surfaces and form a strong bond. It’s often used in construction, woodworking, and automotive applications.
Fungus Resistance
The ability of an adhesive to resist the growth of fungi such as mildew and mold. Fungus resistance is especially important for adhesives that will be exposed to high-humidity environments or outdoor conditions.
G
Gap Filling Adhesive
An adhesive that is formulated to fill gaps between substrates in order to achieve a tight bonding. Gap-filling adhesives are typically used in applications with high dynamic and static loads.
Gel Glue
A type of glue that forms a gel-like consistency when applied, allowing it to cling onto vertical surfaces or fill large gaps before curing. It’s usually made up of latex or another polymer material.
H
Hot Melt Adhesive
For immediate bonding, a type of glue is melted through heat so it can be applied directly onto the surface. It can also be used to join materials like plastics, metals, and wood.
Hydrophobic Adhesive
An adhesive that is able to repel water and resist moisture absorption. Hydrophobic adhesives are typically used in outdoor applications and any application involving wet conditions.
I
Impact Resistance
The power of an adhesive to resist damage from shocks, impacts, vibrations, or sudden changes in temperature. Impact resistance is important for applications requiring durabilities such as product assembly and structural bonding.
Initiator/Catalyst
A chemical agent that accelerates the curing process of an adhesive when exposed to heat or other conditions. Initiators are used in two-part adhesives such as epoxies and polyurethanes to speed up the curing process and reduce cure times.
Insulation
The ability of an adhesive to combat electrical current flow, preventing shorts or sparking. Insulating adhesives are often used for applications such as electronic components assembly, electrical insulation, and EMI shielding.
K
Kneadable Adhesive
A type of adhesive that can be manipulated and molded into shapes. Kneadable adhesives are most commonly used to secure parts of a project in place.
Knit-Line
The line is created when two surfaces with different amounts of adhesive between them meet during application. It is the result of two different adhesive curing rates or two different amounts of glue being applied.
Kynar Filler
A two-part epoxy filler is used to bond dissimilar materials together or fill gaps between material surfaces. Kynar Filler is commonly used for bonding glass, metals, and plastics and offers excellent flexibility, adhesion, and durability.
L
Laminating Adhesive
The specific bonding of laminate materials together formulates an adhesive. This type of adhesive is typically solvent-based and offers excellent flexibility, water resistance, and durability making it suitable for outdoor use.
Latex Adhesive
A type of emulsion adhesive made from latex rubber which is commonly used for bonding fabrics and porous surfaces such as wood veneers or cardboard. Latex adhesives typically provide excellent flexibility while still providing a strong bond.
Light Cure Adhesive
When exposed to ultraviolet (UV) or visible light, a form of adhesive cures. Light cure adhesives are typically used in medical device assembly, electronics, and optical applications due to their fast-curing times.
Low VOC Adhesive
The presence of the low amount of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in an adhesive. Low VOC adhesives are often used where odor or toxicity is an issue such as in residential or hospital settings.
M
Magnetic Glue
Magnetic glue is a newly developed adhesive that uses magnets instead of conventional adhesives to hold items together. This type of glue can be used on nearly any surface without damaging or distorting the material to which it’s been applied.
Masking Tape Adhesive
Masking tape adhesive is a type of pressure-sensitive adhesive that is designed for use on painter’s masking tape. This adhesive is highly resistant to heat and moisture, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications.
Mastic
Mastic is a type of glue adhesive, often used in construction. It is made from a resin base, usually natural latex or synthetic rubber, and can be used to join wood, concrete, stone, metal, glass, and other materials. It can also provide an airtight seal around pipes and windows.
Medical Grade Adhesive
The specified formulation of adhesive use in medical device assemblies and cleanroom environments. Medical grade adhesives offer superior strength, flexibility, biocompatibility, and processability making them ideal for high-performance applications.
Melt Adhesive
A melt adhesive is a hot-melt adhesive that melts when heated and solidifies when cooled. These glues can be applied directly onto the surface of many materials such as plastic, metal, and wood without the need for clamps or any other fixing methods.
Metal Filled Epoxy
Metal-filled epoxy is an industrial-strength adhesive that is often used in automotive, aerospace, and marine applications due to its high bonding strength to metal surfaces. It contains a combination of resins and hardeners that provide superior adhesion and durability compared to traditional glues.
Methyl Methacrylate Adhesive (MMA)
MMA glues are made from a combination of methyl methacrylate monomers and acrylic resins which provide superior strength compared to traditional glues. These adhesives are highly resistant to heat, water, and UV radiation which makes them ideal for both indoor and outdoor applications.
Modified Silicone
This is a type of silicone adhesive that has been modified to provide improved performance compared to traditional silicone adhesives. Modified silicone adhesives are often used in the construction industry due to their high strength, flexibility, and resistance to extreme temperatures.
Monomeric Vinyl
Monomeric vinyl is a type of adhesive made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC). It has excellent adhesion properties and is often used in the automotive, construction, and furniture industries. This glue is highly flexible and can be used on many different surfaces including metal, wood, and plastic.
Mosaic Glue
Mosaic glue is a type of adhesive specifically designed for the assembly of mosaics. It is usually made from an acrylic-based resin and provides superior adhesion between glass tiles, ceramic tiles, stone, or other materials that make up a mosaic pattern.
Multi-Purpose Glue
Multi-purpose glues are popular for use in the home and office. They usually have a neutral color and can be used on a wide variety of materials such as wood, plastic, metal, leather, and fabric.
N
Non-flammable Adhesive
It is a non-burnable adhesive that stays even when exposed to flames or temperatures. Non-flammable adhesives are often used in applications involving extreme heat or flame such as aerospace and automotive.
O
Odorless Adhesive
An adhesive with no detectable smell or odor. Odorless adhesives are often used in applications where odors could be an issue such as paint shops and residential settings.
Optical Transparency
The capacity of an adhesive to transmit light without distortion, haze, or other optical defects. Optical transparency is important for applications that require clarity such as lens bonding and backlit displays.
P
Permanent Bonding
The type of bond formed between two substrates using an adhesive that will remain intact over a long period of time. Permanent bonding is often used in applications requiring strength and durability such as automotive and aerospace assemblies.
Polyurethane Adhesive
A type of two-part adhesive made from polyurethane that cures when exposed to air or moisture. It is often used in construction, automotive, and aerospace applications due to its superior strength and flexibility.
Pressure Sensitive Adhesive
An adhesive formulated to stick to surfaces on contact without the need for additional heat or pressure. It’s often used for attaching labels, tapes, and decals.
R
Reactive Hot Melt Adhesive
A type of hot melt adhesive with a catalyst added which causes it to react with water vapor in the air and bond quickly while still maintaining a flexible bond line.
Removable Glue
A type of glue designed to be removable after drying without damaging the surface it was bonded to. It’s often used for the temporary adhesion of items like labels and stickers.
Rubber-Based Adhesive
An adhesive composed of rubber, resins, and other ingredients that form a strong bond when cured. This type of adhesive is usually used in applications requiring flexibility or shock resistance.
S
Silicone Adhesive
A low-odor, non-toxic type of glue made up of silicone polymers that are heat, water, and chemical resistant. Silicone adhesives are widely used in automotive, industrial, and medical applications due to their superior strength and durability.
Solvent-Based Glue
An adhesive formulated with an organic solvent as the main component. This type of glue has excellent penetration and strong adhesion, making it ideal for use in automotive and industrial applications.
Solvent Free Adhesive
An adhesive that does not contain organic solvents, makes them a safer option for workers and the environment. Solvent-free adhesives are often used in applications where VOCs or odor could be an issue such as residential settings.
Structural Bonding
An adhesive bond is formed between two substrates that have sufficient strength to provide structural integrity. Structural bonding is often used in automotive, aerospace, and industrial assemblies requiring durability and reliability.
T
Thermal Conductive Adhesive
An adhesive formulated specifically for thermal conductivity; meaning it transfers heat away from components more effectively than standard adhesives. Thermal conductive adhesives are often used in electronics assembly where heat dissipation is important.
Threadlocker
A type of adhesive that is used to secure a fastener in place. It is resistant to vibration, heat, and chemicals, making it an ideal choice for safety-critical uses such as bolts on aircraft wings or in automobile engines.
U
Urethane Adhesive
A type of adhesive made from urethane resin that is designed to provide superior impact resistance and flexibility compared to other adhesives. Urethane adhesives can be used for bonding rubber, wood, metals, and certain plastics.
UV Curing Adhesive
An adhesive that cures when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light. UV-curing adhesives are often used in medical devices and optical assembly due to their fast curing times and superior strength, flexibility, and durability.
V
Vinyl Adhesive
An adhesive made from vinyl resin that provides excellent adhesion and temperature resistance. Vinyl adhesives are typically used for bonding plastics, leather, and other materials that require superior weather resistance.
Viscosity
The measure of a fluid’s resistance to flow; higher viscosity means less flowable or thicker. Viscosity is an important factor when selecting an adhesive as it affects the ability of the adhesive to wet out, bond, and cure properly.
W
Water Soluble
A type of glue that is easily dissolved in water. Water-soluble glues are used in applications where the bond needs to be broken down quickly, or when the adhesive must be completely removed without leaving behind any residue.
Wax-Based
An adhesive that is made with wax as its main ingredient. Wax-based adhesives provide a strong bond and are often used in applications where a waterproof bond is needed, such as bookbinding or laminating.
Welding Adhesive
A type of glue that is designed to create a permanent bond between two materials by melting them together. Welding adhesives are used for applications where a strong, durable bond is needed.
Wet Strength
A measure of the adhesive’s ability to remain bonded after it has been exposed to water. This is particularly important for applications where exposure to moisture or humidity is likely.
White Glue
A type of glue that is usually made from a mixture of polyvinyl acetate and water. It dries to become clear, strong, and flexible. White glue is commonly used for craft projects, home repairs, and bonding lightweight materials such as paper and cardboard.
Wood Filler
A type of glue that is designed to fill in gaps between two pieces of wood. Wood filler can be used to create a secure, tight bond that will hold two pieces of wood together while also creating an aesthetically pleasing finish.
Wood Glue
A type of glue specifically designed for bonding wood surfaces together. It forms a strong bond that is resistant to temperature changes and vibration, making it an ideal choice for furniture and home improvement projects.
Wood Stain
A type of adhesive that is used to color and protect wood surfaces. Wood stain can be applied before or after gluing two pieces of wood together and can provide a lasting, attractive finish.
Wrap Glue
A type of adhesive that is designed to bond two surfaces together without requiring any mechanical fastening. Wrap glue can be used for a variety of applications, such as fabricating diagrams or attaching objects to walls or other surfaces.
Y
Yield Strength
The maximum amount of stress a material can withstand without permanently deforming. In glue adhesives, yield strength is an important factor in determining how strong the bond will be. Yield strength can also be affected by temperature changes, humidity levels, and other environmental factors.
Z
Zinc Oxide
A type of curing agent often found in adhesives, which helps improve the adhesive properties and increase bond strength. Zinc oxide is often used in rubber-based adhesives to create a stronger bond between substrates.
Zip Glue
A type of adhesive formulated to form a permanent bond between two surfaces without any mess or odors. It dries quickly, allowing it to be used in a wide range of craft projects.