UV Cure Polymers Speed Productivity
Ultraviolet (UV) curing polymeric adhesives, sealants, coatings, potting and encapsulation compounds offer major advantages over conventional formulations. Most significantly, they are single component systems that require no mixing and cure rapidly at room temperature upon exposure to a UV light source. Cure speeds can be achieved in seconds with a standard 200-300 watt/linear inch, medium pressure, mercury vapor lamp. Production schedules are simplified due to the elimination of pot life problems and lengthy ambient temperature cures (often with post-cure requirements), or the use of oven equipment for elevated temperature cures. Environmentally safe, these compounds are 100% reactive and have low shrinkage upon cure. Storage stability is 6 months at ambient temperatures in the absence of UV/visible light.
Master Bond UV curing polymers consists of acrylics and acrylates, epoxies, polyurethanes, polyesters and silicones. They are designed to have excellent adhesion to similar and dissimilar substrates (including difficult to bond to plastics). Properties are maintained even upon exposure to adverse environmental conditions, including exposure to chemicals and high temperatures. Specific properties for enhanced high performance include superior electrical insulation resistance, impact strength, dimensional stability and low stress. Compounds designed for medical, electronic, automotive, optical, photonic and numerous other applications are available for use.
Master Bond’s research and development chemists have devoted much effort in creating new UV compounds to best meet the needs of our customers. Of particular interest is a new one component, optically clear, non-yellowing UV and/or heat curable compound called UV15-7DC. This high performance adhesive, sealant and coating is ideal for curing in “shadowed out areas” that cannot be exposed to UV light. Another unique formulation recently introduced is Master Bond’s UV15X-5. This one part system offers high flexibility and outstanding abrasion resistance. It can also withstand thermal cycling and mechanical shock.
