Our Guide to Hot Melt Adhesives
Hot melt adhesives (also called "hot melt glue") is a 100% solid thermoplastic that is applied in a molten state and forms a bond on cooling to a solid state. Most hot melts lose tack as they solidify; those that retain their tack can be known as pressure-sensitive adhesives.
Typically, hot melts are formulated with polymers, to provide strength and flexibility; resins, that provide the initial tack, and plasticizers, to alter the viscosity and ease of application. Hot glues also include waxes to thin the adhesive, and antioxidants to preserve the adhesive at high temperatures during storage.
Hot melt adhesives have been used for years. A variety of hot melts are available in the marketplace, and product selection is highly dependent on intended end-use, manufacturing processes, and application equipment.
In Our Guide to Hot Melt, you will learn:
- What hot melt glue is
- How hot melt glue works
- How hot melt glue is applied
- Hot melt glue housekeeping
- Hot melt glue application tips
