What is a curing agent? What is the role of curing agent in glue?
What is a curing agent? What is the role of curing agent in glue?
What is a hardener?
A hardener is a compound used to activate or accelerate the transformation of a glue or resin from a liquid to a solid state. This process, called curing, helps form chemical bonds between molecules, giving the material strength, resistance and other physical properties.
Common types of curing agents
- Amine curing agents
Common in epoxy adhesives.
Amines (NH₂) react with epoxy groups (COC) to form crosslinks in the polymer structure, thereby increasing hardness and durability.
There are many types of amines used, including aliphatic amines, alicyclic amines, aromatic amines, and amine adducts.
- Anhydride Curing Agents
Used in applications requiring high heat resistance and insulation, commonly found in the electronics or automotive industries.
There are several different types of anhydrides, including aromatic anhydrides, cycloaliphatic anhydrides, and aliphatic anhydrides
- Polyurethane curing agent
Product of the reaction of isocyanate (NCO) and hydroxyl (OH). Widely used in wood glue, concrete and other construction materials.
- UV Curing Agent
Specially formulated for adhesives or resins that need to be cured under ultraviolet light. Widely used in electronics, printing and medical industries.
The role of curing agent in adhesives
Curing agent is one of the factors that determine the performance and effect of adhesives. The main roles of curing agent are as follows:
Increase adhesion:
The curing process transforms the glue from liquid to solid, thus forming a high bond between the material surfaces. Ensure long-term stability and avoid peeling in harsh environments.
Improve mechanical properties:
After curing, the adhesive has excellent hardness and strength, meeting the high technical requirements of the industrial field. For example, amine-cured epoxy adhesives can achieve very high tensile strength.
Better heat and chemical resistance:
Some curing agents, such as anhydrides or amines, can improve the heat resistance, solvent resistance and chemical resistance of materials. This is particularly important in the electronics or construction industry.
Meet diverse applications:
Each type of hardener can be customized for different uses, from bonding wood, plastics to concrete or metal.
Flexible curing time:
Some types of hardeners can control the setting time, which makes them more convenient during construction or manufacturing.
