If you know anything about Chemical Concepts, you know that we sell the best adhesives on the market and we’re able to discuss just about any adhesive-related need that you come up with. But here’s the truth: just about any adhesive we sell can fail if it is not used correctly. But with proper use and a little attention on the user’s part, the advanced quality adhesives that we sell will offer great benefit, design options and efficiency.

In short, if you use them correctly, we’re confident that you’re going to love them.

So let’s look at a few hints of how to ensure that your adhesive doesn’t fail.

Think About Substrate Compatibility

If a substrate and adhesive are incompatible, there’s a good chance that adhesive failure will happen. For example, certain plastics may have plasticizers that seep into the surface over time and end up causing adhesive failure in some spots. Additionally, some surfaces can cause the adhesive to improperly cure. Make sure to check out the adhesives’ compatibility prior to using – there are some matches that just aren’t made in heaven. Our sales team can help answer your questions about adhesive compatibility.

Are You Using It in Unusual Environmental Conditions?

Be aware of any types of out-of-the-norm environmental conditions that might increase the likelihood of adhesive failure, given their impact on curing. Here a few examples:

• High humidity.
• Carbon dioxide.
• Extreme temperatures (hot or cold).
• PH levels.
• Oxygen.

Unusual environmental conditions can cause an adhesive to either cure more slowly or much more quickly than it should. Research the adhesive you wish to use – most labels details what sort of environmental conditions will help the adhesive to be used to its maximum potential.

Is the Surface Really Good to Go?

If a surface is contaminated, you might be facing adhesive failure. A few different types of contamination include:

• Grease.
• Oil (including oils that come from your skin).
• Other impurities.

It is always worth your time to ensure that equipment is properly cleaned and surfaces are properly prepared prior to using the adhesive.

If automated dispensing technology is used, you need to take care to help it remain clean throughout production. There is potential for some adhesives to partially cure in the dispensing apparatus – this will result in decreased adhesive strength.

Helpful surface preparation might include various washing and abrasion treatment methods, but the best method will depend on the specific substrate and adhesive chemistry. Take care to verify how you should prepare with the particular adhesive that you’ll be using.

Chemical Concepts is the proud distributor for several brands of top-quality adhesives.

>> View our own line of Chem-Set adhesives.

>> View the Bostik adhesives that we carry.

>> View the LORD adhesives that we carry.

We carry other highly regarded adhesive brands too. And with any adhesive that we carry, we will be happy to answer any question you might have and help you to avoid adhesive failure at all costs. Correct usage and preparation will help you succeed. Call us today (toll-free) at 800-220-1966 or email us at sales@chemical-concepts. com. We’ll be happy to help!