1.1 Introduction

This chapter provides an understanding of adhesives and sealants as a means for assembling and adding value to finished products. The importance and prominence that adhesives and sealants have as commercial products are highlighted. The multiple functions played by adhesives and sealants are identified as are the critical procedures required to achieve successful results. The advantages and disadvantages of using these materials are explained and compared to other methods of joining.

Basic definitions of common terms used in the adhesive and sealant industries are provided in this chapter, and a glossary of terms appears in Appendix A. The processes employed by the manufacturers of adhesives and sealants and by their end-users are described. Sources of information for further understanding and study are offered at the conclusion of this chapter and in Appendix B.

Through this chapter, the reader will gain an appreciation of the complex processes related to adhesives and sealants and the multiple sciences that form their foundation. This chapter reveals why a multi-disciplined approach is necessary for the successful application of adhesives and sealants. Most of the topics presented are again visited in detail in later chapters.

1.2 Fundamentals of Adhesives and Sealants