Why do elastomeric adhesives have high peel strength and flexibility?

Elastomeric adhesives derive their flexibility and high peel strength from the unique molecular properties of elastomers. These materials are composed of polymers that possess little internal hindrance to the random motion of their monomer subunits, allowing the molecular chains to rotate freely around carbon-carbon bonds.1

To maintain this flexibility, these polymers must remain above their glass transition temperature at room temperature, which prevents them from entering a rigid, glassy state. Furthermore, they are structured to avoid spontaneous crystallization, which would otherwise stiffen the material. Because of these characteristics, elastomeric adhesives can easily deform and return to their original state, providing the flexibility and high peel strength required for effective bonding in various applications.12