The many different types of adhesive products available on the market can be overwhelming. Picking the right one will depend on a number of factors, such as the material you are working with.
Hot glue, or hot melt adhesive, is a common choice but it is better for some projects than others. Here is more information on what hot glue will not stick to.
How does hot glue work as an adhesive?
Hot glue contains no solvents or water. It is made of thermoplastic polymers combined with wax, tackifiers and mobilizers to give the polymers their adhesive power.
This means that hot glue becomes sticky and moldable at high temperatures and re-solidifies when it cools, therefore bonding items together at a very high setting speed.
What surfaces does hot glue not stick to?
Hot glue will not stick to very smooth surfaces, like metal, silicone, vinyl, wax, or greasy and wet surfaces.
What does hot glue bond well with?
Hot glue can be ideal for rougher or more porous surfaces since the glue will be able to fill small crevices and will bond to the surfaces more effectively as it solidifies.
Its effectiveness can also depend on the quality of hot glue you are using. For example, Thermobond hot melt adhesives are very resistant to various environmental factors and can be used in a variety of applications.
Will hot glue hold fabric together?
Hot glue can hold fabric very well since it has a rough surface. However, it may make your fabric rougher. Additionally, not all types of fabrics will react to different glues the same way.
For example, you may not want to use hot glue on polyester due to the way the fabric responds to heat. On the other hand, hot glue is often a good choice for nylon fabric.
Will hot glue hold wood together?
You may think that wood glue is the only suitable adhesive for wood, but some hot melt adhesives can also work very well in some cases. In fact, both types of glue can be combined for durable wood joints.
Will hot glue hold glass together?
While some types of hot glue can stick to glass, it will not create a strong bond. You may want to prioritize another type of adhesive such as epoxy.
Other factors for hot glue bonding strength
The two most important external factors to consider when using hot glue are temperature and weight.
Hot glue is not ideal in very high-heat or cold environments, especially since hot glue can break in cold weather. This breaking temperature can depend on the specific hot glue you are working with, so it can be worth checking before use.
A silicone sealant may be more durable in cold temperatures, but you should keep in mind that it will take longer to cure.
Hot glue is rarely used for high-strength applications. The exact weight it can handle will depend on the material and glue being used.
Adfast is here for all your adhesive needs
In short, there are many factors to consider before purchasing hot glue for your project. You can always seek the help of professionals to help you make the right decision.
The experts at Adfast can provide you with the information you need regarding the application of hot melt adhesives. Contact us today!
