Surfactants for Adhesives

Surfactants for Adhesives

In the fascinating world of adhesives, where bonding meets versatility, surfactants emerge as true architects of the interface. These agents, often overlooked but always omnipresent, unleash a silent revolution in adhesive formulation, transforming the way surfaces meet and adhere.

What are surfactants for adhesives?

Surfactants, also known as surfactants, are chemical compounds that alter the surface tension between two phases, such as the adhesive and the substrate. In the context of adhesives, surfactants are essential for improving the wettability of surfaces and, therefore, the adhesive’s ability to bond effectively. 

Highlighted Properties/Advantages

Improved wettability: Surfactants enhance wettability by reducing surface tension, allowing the adhesive to spread and efficiently cover the surfaces to be bonded.

Enhanced adhesion: They facilitate better adhesion by promoting uniform spreading of the adhesive on the surface, maximizing the contact between adhesive molecules and the substrate. 

Bubble prevention: They help prevent bubble formation by allowing the adhesive to distribute evenly without unwanted accumulations. 

Compatibility with diverse substrates: Surfactants improve adhesive compatibility with a variety of substrates, from metals to plastics, by modifying surface interaction. 

Emulsion stability: In water-based adhesive formulations, surfactants help maintain emulsion stability, preventing phase separation. 

Reduction of interfacial tension: They decrease interfacial tension between the adhesive and the substrate, facilitating more efficient bonding. 

Distribution improvement: They contribute to a more homogeneous distribution of the adhesive, enhancing the consistency of the application process. 

Common Uses

Construction industry: Used in construction adhesives to improve adhesion on a variety of materials used in construction projects.

Packaging manufacturing: In packaging manufacturing, surfactants ensure that the adhesive spreads evenly over packaging surfaces, improving structural integrity. 

Automotive: They are fundamental in automotive adhesives to ensure efficient bonding in various components, from plastics to metals. 

Electronics: In the electronics industry, surfactants optimize bonding in the manufacturing of electronic devices and printed circuits. 

Furniture industry: Used in furniture manufacturing to improve adhesion on various surfaces, from wood to laminates. 

Benefits in the field of adhesives

Stronger bonds: Improved wettability and adhesion result in stronger and more durable bonds. 

Application efficiency: They facilitate efficient adhesive application by improving its spreading capability on surfaces.

Material versatility: They enhance adhesive compatibility with a wide range of materials, increasing its versatility. 

Greater stability: They contribute to emulsion stability in water-based formulations, ensuring adhesive consistency. 

Defect prevention: They help prevent defects such as bubbles and accumulations, improving the quality of adhesive bonds. 

Our surfactants for adhesives

Surfactants/solubilizers

Betaine CAPB 30%B / RSPO Mass Balance 

Anionic surfactants

Marlon® AS 3 

Non-ionic surfactants

Marlipal® O13/90 

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