Water-based adhesives refer to adhesive formulations where water serves as the primary solvent or dispersing medium for the polymer component. When water is used instead of organic solvents, it makes the adhesive environment-friendly. In water-based adhesives, special polymers are used that can be dispersed or dissolved in water owing to their hydrophilic nature. These adhesives cure through mechanisms like evaporation of water, crosslinking of polymer chains, etc. to form a strong bond between substrates.
How are Waterborne Adhesives Formulated?
Water-based Waterborne Adhesives are formulated by dissolving or dispersing film-forming polymers into water. The main polymers used include acrylics, polyurethanes, vinyl acetate, ethylene-vinyl acetate and natural or synthetic rubber latexes. Emulsifiers and stabilizers are added to these polymer dispersions to prevent settling or coagulation. Other components in a typical water-based adhesives formulation include plasticizers to impart flexibility, thickeners for proper application viscosity, biocides, neutralizing agents, coalescing solvents and crosslinking agents. The resulting product is an aqueous emulsion or solution of film-forming polymers.
Application Methods for Water-based adhesives
These environment-friendly adhesives can be applied through various methods depending on the end use and substrate. The common application techniques include spraying, brushing, rolling and curtain coating. They spread easily due to low viscosity and have short drying or curing times. Some water-based adhesives require heat activation to fully cure. Their non-toxic nature allows application in occupied spaces. Due to the film-forming capability of their polymer component, water-based adhesives form strong long-lasting bonds after drying.
Green Credentials of Water-based adhesives
By replacing organic solvents with water, water-based adhesives prove advantageous from an environmental standpoint. They have low or zero Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) emissions, which are primary air pollutants from solvent-based adhesives. This helps manufacturers meet stringent environmental regulations on VOC levels. Their aqueous formulation makes them safe to use without any fire hazards associated with flammable solvents. Even the discarded adhesive waste is less hazardous as water allows for easy separation of polymer from effluent. Water-based adhesives contribute to sustainable manufacturing by reducing the carbon footprint of industries.
Applications of Waterborne Adhesives
Paper Industry
Most common use is in laminating paper and paperboard products like case bindings, carton sealing, box assembly, etc. Water-based adhesives achieve strong bonds between paper and films suitable for packaging applications.
2. Woodworking
They work well for bonding wood, chipboard, MDF, plywood and other wood composites. Used in furniture, flooring, window and door fabrication. Outstanding for exterior-grade wood applications.
3. Non-wovens Industry
Adhesive bonding of non-woven fibers into fabrics for applications like construction materials, geo-textiles, hygiene products, filtration media, etc.
4. Automotive and Transportation
Vehicle interior and exterior parts require adhesives for assembly, crash padding and corrosion protection. Also used in railcar, truck and trailer construction.
5. Footwear Manufacturing
Adhesive bonding of shoe components and attaching soles to uppers. Water-based adhesives give durable yet flexible long-lasting shoes.
6. Labels and Tapes
Water-based adhesives ensure strong adhesive coating on self-adhesive labels used across multiple industries. Also for pressure-sensitive tapes.
7. Building and Construction
Adhesive bonding of tiles, drywalls and panels. Also used for roofing, flooring and cladding applications. Long-open assembly times and moisture resistance are highly suitable properties.
Benefits of Water-based adhesives
Reduced VOCs, non-toxicity, low fire hazard and ease of waste disposal make Waterborne Adhesives environment-friendly substitutes for solvent-borne adhesives. Their non-flammable nature ensures safe adhesive application even in occupied spaces. Excellent bonding to various substrates, flexibility and good resistance to water and plasticizer migration allow durable end applications. The cost-effectiveness of water-based adhesives technology is continuously improving with advancements in polymer chemistry. This is driving increased replacement of solvent-based adhesives across different industries.
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