Adhesive, selection cure speed

Other properties that are heavily influenced by the choice of monomer include cure speed (in general higher functional monomers cure more rapidly), viscosity, and durability of the film. Table 1 lists some monomers, their viscosities, and the properties that they enhance (reprinted with permission from Sartomer). it is important to note several trends on the chart. Cure speed increases with an increase in functionality (all of the recommended monomers in that column are at least trifunctional and several are tetra- or penta-functional). Viscosity also increases as the functionality of the monomer is raised (all of the low viscosity diluents are diacrylates). The adhesion promoting monomers are all di- or mono-functional. Most formulas contain several different monomers and sometimes also oligomers as there is often a balancing act that must be performed when selecting materials that will provide the required performance properties while still maintaining the correct viscosity and surface tension. 

An adhesive cannot be selected solely on the basis of bond strength information as other factors such as cure speed, environmental resistance and dispensing method will all influence the final choice. The values given for the shear strength are given to provide a general idea of how each of the nine adhesives performed on the particular material. Different performances will be achieved depending on the fillers, lubricants, colourants and anti-static additives. 

The selection of the cure system in these applications is directed by constraints such as location of the adhesive in terms of confined space, speed and depth of cure, etc. The volumes of silicones typically applied are relatively small. In general, the uncured adhesive needs to be dispensed in a well-defined and limited area, and needs to stay in place without flowing during cure. No by-products of the cure reaction are acceptable as they may contaminate other sensitive areas of the devices. These constraints often direct the choice to the platinum-catalyzed hydrosilylation cure system that is relatively expensive. 

In these applications a variety of adhesives are used including UV cure, cyanoacrylates and two-part adhesives (epoxies or acrylics) and the adhesive is selected for its clarity, cost, speed of cure and ease of use. 

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