ITW Performance Polymers Launches New MMA Structural Adhesive to Address 'Difficult to Bond' Substra
MMA structural adhesives (methyl methacrylate) offer distinct advantages over other adhesives: Fast room temperature curing, excellent mechanical properties, and a broad range of adhesion. Older MMA adhesives bond a wide range of materials but might struggle with “difficult to bond” metals like hot dipped galvanized steel, or tough semi-crystalline plastics like polyamides (nylons). They may also exhibit a strong odor. ITW users have reported that they prefer an adhesive that is easy to use, non-sag, and cures tack-free.
According to the company, the Plexus team at ITW Performance Polymers has worked hard to introduce Plexus MA8105 as the newest adhesive to the Plexus line, continuing to push the limits of what is possible with MMA adhesives and address the challenges of earlier generations.
A lot of factors come into play when creating the next generation in structural adhesives. Intended function, materials being used, types of substrates involved in the bonding process and so on. The Plexus technical team worked diligently to create a custom solution for end users:
ITW reports that customers expect an adhesive to bond the full range of materials they work with. Older generations of adhesives had difficulty bonding galvanized steel, nylons (polyamides) to composites, other metals and plastics.
Certain applications require high strength even at 180°F (82°C) or higher. Earlier formulations rarely exceeded strength beyond >1,000 psi (7 MPa). The strength development of the adhesive also has to match throughput expectations. Making more parts per hour helps improve efficiency and lower cost. Users need high strength adhesives with good elongation that can handle impact and fatigue.
Source: ITW Performance Polymers