What is a pressure sensitive adhesive?
Pressure sensitive adhesives are a versatile bonding technology defined by their permanent tack and clean, easy-to-use properties. Applied with light pressure from a machine or by hand they can form a bond, for both temporary and permanent applications.
Unlike other adhesives, their natural elasticity lets them move and flex within use; to absorb and then dissipate energy upon impact. Making them great for security closures as well as industrial uses such as bonding components in the automotive industry, for example.
PSAs can be formulated to have high or low tack, in-built cohesive strength, temperature performance, and clean die-cutting properties.
How does pressure sensitive adhesive work?
As mentioned, pressure sensitives are applied with pressure, so unlike other glues, they are non-reactive, requiring no water, solvent, or heat to activate the adhesive. Their pre-cured nature makes them incredibly easy-to-use – simply peel and stick.
Performing well at room temperatures, some pressure sensitives can lose their tack at low temperatures and reduce their shear strength at high temperatures, though this can be overcome with the latest, advanced formulations.
Additionally, surface factors should be considered when using pressure sensitives: substrates that are smooth, with good surface energy, and free of contaminates will enhance their performance.
Types of pressure sensitive adhesive
Typically formulated with a rubber, acrylic, or silicone base, pressure sensitives are used for both permanent and temporary applications.
For permanent applications such as automotive insulation and sound dampening assembly, pressure sensitives provide a lighter and stronger alternative to fasteners and fixings. Other applications include safety labels and even insect traps.
Temporary applications, designed to leave surfaces residue-free, include packaging tapes, decorating tapes, surface protection films, bag and envelope closures, sticky notes, and skin care materials such as plasters/band aids, athletic tape, and ECG electrodes. They can be designed to repeatedly stick and unstick or provide a destructive bond for security and reassurance.
Furthermore, pressure sensitives can be formulated to be softer, for faster flow and bond build strength, or firmer, offering stronger bond strength and increased high temperature performance, depending on the application requirements.
Benefits of pressure sensitive adhesive
Pressure sensitives allow businesses to maximise design options, enhance product performance, and boost productivity. The following are reasons why manufacturers should use pressure sensitives in their business and supply chains:
Easy application: tapes or self-adhesive coatings can be applied in a factory and then bonded at site by simply peeling and sticking, saving time, and reducing labour costs.
Natural elasticity: the viscoelastic, non-rigid bond of pressure sensitives enables them to move and flex with substrates, accommodating temperature changes and absorbing impact. They also provide vibration dampening.
Bonds dissimilar materials: the viscoelastic properties of PSAs allow them to excel at bonding dissimilar materials, such as metals to plastic, foam to card, or wood to glass.
Precise application: using converted or die cut shapes can led to more accurate placement and enable automation.
Summing up
The broad performance and adaptability of pressure sensitive adhesives makes them an essential bonding technology for a growing number of industries and applications worldwide. To take full advantage of their unique performance properties, it’s crucial to choose the right adhesive by considering the application, substrates, environment, and desired product lifespan.
For further information about Beardow Adams’ range of pressure sensitive adhesives, send an email to: marketing@beardowadams.com or fill in the enquiry form.