Review on Adhesives and Surface Treatments for Structural Applications: Recent Developments on Sustainability and Implementation for Metal and Composite Substrates

Abstract

Using adhesives for connection technology has many benefits. It is cost-efficient, fast, and allows homogeneous stress distribution between the bonded surfaces. This paper gives an overview on the current state of knowledge regarding the technologically important area of adhesive materials, as well as on emergent related technologies. It is expected to fill some of the technological gaps between the existing literature and industrial reality, by focusing at opportunities and challenges in the adhesives sector, on sustainable and eco-friendly chemistries that enable bio-derived adhesives, recycling and debonding, as well as giving a brief overview on the surface treatment approaches involved in the adhesive application process, with major focus on metal and polymer matrix composites. Finally, some thoughts on the connection between research and development (R&D) efforts, industry standards and regulatory aspects are given. It contributes to bridge the gap between industry and research institutes/academy. Examples from the aeronautics industry are often used since many technological advances in this industry are innovation precursors for other industries. This paper is mainly addressed to chemists, materials scientists, materials engineers, and decision-makers.

Performance of cross laminated timber panels made of Pinus oocarpa and Coffea arabica waste

“…The CLT study highlights the importance of the adhesive. Marques et al (2020) state that this component is the most important part of a glued joint and emphasize that it depends on the formulation, preparation and application. Among the most requested, phenol-formaldehyde stands out, which is one of the main types of synthetic thermoset adhesive used by the wood panel industries.…”

Testing mechanical performance of adhesively bonded composite joints in engineering applications: an overview

“…Acid etching, corona discharge treatment, plasma treatment, flame treatment and laser treatment are examples of surface treatments that aim to decrease the water contact angle and increase the surface tension. [258,259] In terms of aluminium alloys, Critchlow and Brewis [260] presented a review of surface treatments, which involved mechanical, chemical or electrochemical treatments. These authors concluded that, regardless of its effectiveness, the surface treatment must be selected according to the type of aluminium and adhesive to obtain the highest strength and durability.…”

Chemically Activated SS Metathesis for Adhesive‐Free Bonding of Polysulfide Surfaces

“…For example: slow cure times; limited shelf life; and low humidity‐, solvent‐, and temperature‐resistance can be detrimental in many contexts. [ 4 ] Furthermore, there are increasing concerns for the sustainability and life‐cycle management of polymer‐based adhesives. [ 4 ]…”

“…[ 4 ] Furthermore, there are increasing concerns for the sustainability and life‐cycle management of polymer‐based adhesives. [ 4 ]…”

“…For example: slow cure times; limited shelf life; and low humidity-, solvent-, and temperature-resistance can be detrimental in many contexts. [4] Furthermore, there are increasing concerns for the sustainability and life-cycle management of polymer-based adhesives. [4] Recently, our lab introduced a different approach to adhesive technology in which the bulk polymer is both the structural material and adhesive.…”