Overview of Mixing Technologies for the Production of Low to High Viscosity Adhesives
Abstract
Adhesives are formulated from different chemistries depending on their end use and desired performance. The type and amount of resin, curing agent, fillers and additives are selected to optimize bonding to a particular substrate in a particular environment. In a similar way, the mixing technologies utilized in the production of adhesives also vary from one formulation to another. Mixer selection is based on a number of factors but primarily viscosity profile and shear input.
The ideas discussed in this paper are recommendations based on Ross’ collective experience as a provider of specialty mixing equipment to the adhesive industries for over 170 years. Mixer testing and simulation trials are recommended to confirm the suitability of a specific mixing strategy.
Introduction
The preparation of almost all adhesives begins and ends with adequate mixing. From the homogenization of adhesive emulsions, to the dissolution of polymers into solvents, or mastication of rubber and let-down of master batches, the type of mixing equipment and method hugely dictate over-all processing efficiency and end-product quality. This paper seeks to provide an overview of effective and updated mixing technologies being implemented across many of today’s competitive adhesives manufacturing plants, as well as new equipment designs increasingly being recognized by the industry as potential solutions to prevailing mixing challenges.
