Adhesive Education Series: Understanding Types of Pressure Sensitive Adhesives (PSAs)

According to Markets and Markets, pressure sensitive adhesives (PSAs) are projected to reach $15.76 billion by 2026. Due in large part to increasing end-use in packaging and transportation markets, this growth is also because PSAs come in a variety of forms and offer various characteristics. As a result, engineers often toward to them to meet their bonding needs. Gain insight into PSA forms and characteristics to understand which works best for your application.

• Solvent

Types of solvent-based PSAs are acrylic, styrene block copolymer, silicone and polyisobutylene. Applied to a web or substrate, they offer excellent moisture resistance.

• Water-borne

Water-borne PSAs are comprised of acrylic, vinyl acetate ethylene and certain elastomer types. Typically lower cost than solvent-based, these PSAs are environmentally friendly. However, they offer relative poor moisture resistance.

• Hot Melt

Types of hot melt PSAs include polyurethane, acrylic, styrene block copolymer and polyisobutylene. Formulated with tackifying resins, oils and antioxidants, they can be extruded at temperatures to 150°F. -- A leading supplier of PSAs, Bostik offers a range of solutions for markets ranging from automotive to graphic design, packaging to trucks. In particular, these products offer:

• Flexible open times
• High levels of tack
• High resistance to plasticizer migration
• Permanent or removable formulations

For more information on our extensive PSAs and how they can improve your processes and end-use products overall, contact a Bostik expert today!