Which adhesive families make up most structural adhesives used in original equipment manufacturing?

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In original equipment manufacturing, 95% of all structural adhesives belong to six primary families:1

  • Epoxies: Known for high strength and excellent resistance to heat and solvents.1
  • Polyurethanes: Valued for their flexibility and resistance to shock and fatigue.1
  • Acrylics: A versatile group that cures quickly and can bond to oily surfaces.1
  • Anaerobics: Surface-activated acrylics specifically effective for bonding cylindrical shapes and threaded metal parts.1
  • Cyanoacrylates: Used for rapid bonding to rubber and plastic, though they have limited moisture and temperature resistance.1
  • Silicones: Provide excellent sealing properties, flexibility, and weather resistance for outdoor applications.1

These families are favored for their load-carrying capabilities and long-term durability. While other materials like polyesters and phenolic resins are used in industry, they often face performance or processing limitations compared to these six core groups.1