Low Temperatures and Thermal Cycling

Many applications for adhesives and sealants require high strength and durability at low temperatures. Many of these same applications also require resistance to thermal cycling between high and low operating temperatures. Unfortunately, the properties of adhesives and sealants at low temperatures are not as well studied or documented as they are at high temperatures. 

Typical examples of adhesive and sealant applications requiring low-temperature or thermal cycling performance include 

Because of their ease of use and overall good adhesive properties, epoxy structural adhesives often find themselves in these types of applications. 

Many of the applications listed above are affected by more than just diurnal (day/night cycling) or seasonal variations. Outdoor electrical equipment, such as light fixtures, transformers, etc., is subjected to the normal temperature variations that occur during the day or season however, it is also exposed to the temperature variations that occur when energizing and deenergizing the equipment. 

These low-temperature environmental effects can be significant factors that contribute to an adhesive system s durability and life. This section discusses the characteristics of epoxy adhesive joints exposed to low temperatures and to thermal cycling and suggests formulations for improving the resistance of adhesives and sealants to these conditions. 

---

The effect of high temperature, low temperature, and thermal cycling on the mechanical properties ... 

---