Epoxy Glue: Properties and Uses

Epoxy glue is an adhesive in which the base polymer is formed by the chemical group called 'epoxy'. This HomeQuicks article provides information regarding the properties and uses of this glue.

Anup Patwardhan

Standing the Heat

The adhesive nature of epoxy glue degrades when the temperature reaches above 350 ºF, i.e., 177 ºC.

An epoxy glue is also known as a structural adhesive or an engineering adhesive. It is one of the most widely used adhesives in the industrial sectors. It has innumerable applications right from manufacture of hangers, wind turbines, etc., to the manufacture of planes. It is mainly used in applications where bonds of high strengths are required. The adhesive bonds that it forms have a better chemical resistance along with having a better tolerance towards heat. These bonds are formed by curing, a process in which the hardening of the adhesive is achieved by crosslinking of its polymer chains.

There are two variants of the epoxy glue: one component and two component. Curing in two component epoxy adhesives is achieved by a chemical reaction between a resin and a hardener which come in a cartridge; and the two components are to be mixed in a proper proportion.

The speed of curing in the one component variant is faster compared to two component as it comes pre-catalyzed and needs moderate heat for curing. The properties and uses of epoxy glue are discussed in the following sections.

Properties

Epoxy glue has a tendency to absorb moisture.
The bonds formed by epoxy glue have a high resistance to chemicals.
The adhesion that it forms is resistant to higher temperatures.
They possess strong mechanical properties.
The bonding can be rigid or flexible as per the requirement.
Transparent, opaque, or colored adhesion can be achieved.

Uses

For plastics: Plastics need quick assembly and bonding, hence epoxy glue is one of the best options to be used for plastics. This is mainly due to the low time it takes for the process of bonding which ranges from a few minutes to just a few hours.

For wood: The need of quick assembly and bonding holds true in case of woods too. Hence, these adhesives are used for bonding woods as well.

For ceramics: This glue comes with an added advantage of being available in different colors which enables the glue to hide itself. This feature along with its strong bonding properties make it a favorite in the ceramic industry.

For metals: When used on metals, they can also be used in place of primers to prevent corrosion of metals, which further strengthens the bond.

For insulation: Epoxy glue is not only used as an adhesive, but it can also be used for providing electrical conductivity and insulation.

This glue is used for bonding purpose as well as to provide a protective layer, and hence, it has found its place in both domestic as well as industrial sectors. Along with the aforementioned uses, it is also used in the aviation sector, microelectronics, medical devices, etc.

How to Use Epoxy Glue?

Select proper adhesives which may be in liquid or paste form.
Wear the necessary protective accessories.
Mix the two adhesives according to the instructions.
Be sure to clean the surface that is to be bonded with acetone.
Apply the mixture sparingly over the surfaces that are to be bonded.
Apply some pressure on these bonded surfaces.
Allow the adhesive on the surface to dry before giving final touches of paint or varnish.

The adhesive can take a few minutes or a few hours to complete its processes of adhesion.

There are some health concerns that one must take into consideration which result from exposure to this adhesive. One of these concerns is an allergic reaction. To avoid this, those handling the glue must use it in an open space, along with the protective gear like gloves and goggles.