adhesieven

Adhesieven, the Dutch term for adhesives, are substances used to join two surfaces by forming an adhesive bond between them and a cohesive network within the adhesive material. They can be natural or synthetic and are chosen according to substrate, load, temperature, and environmental exposure. In use, the bond strength depends on surface preparation, adhesion to the substrate, and the cohesive strength of the adhesive.

Common classes include natural glues such as animal glue and casein, and a wide range of synthetic polymers such as epoxies, polyurethanes, silicones, acrylics, cyanoacrylates, and hot-melt adhesives. Each class offers different properties: epoxies provide high strength and chemical resistance; polyurethanes are versatile and tough; silicones perform well under temperature and weathering; cyanoacrylates cure rapidly; hot melts are easy to apply but may have lower temperature resistance.

Adhesives cure by various mechanisms, including solvent evaporation, moisture- or chemical-cure reactions, heat, or ultraviolet light. Surface preparation, including cleaning and sometimes roughening, is critical to bond quality. Substrate compatibility, the presence of contaminants, and service conditions such as temperature and humidity influence performance and aging.

Applications cover packaging and woodworking, construction and automotive, electronics, medical devices, textiles, and consumer products. Safety and environmental considerations include exposure to volatile compounds, allergens, and disposal or recycling of bonded products; product safety data sheets guide handling and use.

The modern adhesive industry emerged from natural glues and starch-based products and expanded in the 20th century with synthetic polymers, enabling many technologies and manufacturing processes.