Adesive

Adesive is not a standard English term; in many contexts it appears as a misspelling or as a loanword from other languages where it denotes a sticky substance or adhesive product. In English, the correct term is adhesive or adhesive substance, which refers to a material that binds surfaces together by forming a bond at the interface.

Adhesives are broadly categorized into natural and synthetic types. Natural adhesives include animal glues derived from collagen, starch- and plant-based pastes, and milk-derived casein. Synthetic adhesives encompass a wide range of chemistries, such as epoxy resins, cyanoacrylates (super glues), polyurethanes, silicones, acrylics, and hot-melt adhesives. Pressure-sensitive adhesives, which bond with light pressure without heat or solvent, are widely used in tapes, labels, and decals.

Bonding mechanisms vary. Some adhesives cure through solvent evaporation or moisture loss, others through chemical reactions that create crosslinked networks, and still others require heat or ultraviolet light to initiate hardening. Performance is influenced by bond strength, shear and peel resistance, temperature tolerance, flexibility, gap filling, and open time before the adhesive sets. Surface preparation, substrate compatibility, and curing conditions are critical for a durable joint.

Applications span many industries. Adhesives are used in packaging, woodworking, metal fabrication, automotive, electronics assembly, construction, and medical devices. Safety and environmental considerations include volatile organic compounds in some formulations, skin and eye protection requirements, proper ventilation, and end-of-life disposal.

Historically, natural glues were replaced or augmented by synthetic adhesives in the 20th century, enabling stronger bonds, faster curing, and new applications. Today, adhesive technology continues to evolve with emphasis on performance, sustainability, and specialized uses.