What is a Polyurethane Adhesive?

Polyurethane adhesives are a thermoplastic glue or a polymer that contains replicas of organic chain units linked to urethane links. The chemical reaction between the polymers results in the creation of the adhesive. This glue can be extremely strong and resistant most forms of degradation.

Polyurethanes Sealants are different to adhesives. For more on our range of Action Sealants visit our sealants webpage.

Appearance

Polyurethane adhesives are typically brown or clear in colour. Pigments such as green and red can be added for those using it in applications such as spraying, where it is important to make it visible on the application area.

It can be purchased as a Polyurethane Spray, for applications where fast application to a wide area is required. It is also available as a Polyurethane resin that can be applied with a brush or roller. The final application method, is with a hand held roller. This is perfect for applying an even layer of adhesive to a substrate.

Applications

Polyurethane adhesives have a very wide variety of applications. These applications can include flooring where it of often used as carpet glue, in joineries where it is a perfect wood and fabric glue. The industry uses for Polyurethane Adhesives are equally varied:

• Construction
• Furniture
• Laminating
• Pharmaceutical
• Aerospace
• Footwear
• Flooring and Roofing
• Rail
• Cladding
• Caravans
• Truck Panels
• Cold Stores

Cure Times

Polyurethane adhesives area available in either a one part or 2-part adhesive. The 2-part adhesive will usually set much quicker, with the one-part variant taking up to or around 30min depending on your requirements.

At Action Adhesives, we can provide you with the polyurethane adhesive that best matches your business needs. Once set, polyurethane adhesives offer a permanent bond that will flex and provide excellent temperature versatility. These bonds can be sanded, stained and painted once cured. See our range of adhesives here.

Advantages of using Polyurethane

Polyurethane adhesives have a range of advantages. These include:

• Excellent versatility
• Very suitable for sensitive substrates
• Excellent resistant to heat, water and chemicals
• Can be very easily applied (Polyurethane adhesive can be applied with a glue gun, spray gun, roller or brushed onto the substrate)
• Don’t require any mixing

Disadvantages of Polyurethane Adhesives

Polyurethane Adhesives are an excellent all-round adhesive that can be used in a wide range of applications. However, there are some scenarios where an alternative adhesive maybe better.

• Polyurethane adhesives are not as strong as an epoxy glue on metal
• They require a tight fit for a strong join. If the adhesive foams or has a gap to fill upon setting, it will be less strong.
• Setting times vary depending on formulation and environmental conditions.
• Limited shelf life – Polyurethane adhesives typically have a shelf-life of between 6 to 12 months. (Make sure you check this if purchasing for infrequent use)

Not sure if adhesive if the best option, message the team with your query and find advice from industry experts – info@action-adhesives.ie

Think a polyurethane adhesive is the suitable for your business?

At Action Adhesives, we stock a wide range of Polyurethane adhesive to suit every business need, at very competitive prices. Our adhesives are available, with next day delivery across the island of Ireland. We have nine products available online and a wide range of custom polyurethane adhesive available upon request.

To speak with our adhesive experts or to order, call 01 6855 600 or email info@acton-adhesives.ie with your adhesive or glue needs.