Adherent are adhesive formulations where water serves as the primary solvent or dispersion medium. As the name suggests, these adhesives are water-based and utilize water as a carrier for the polymer instead of organic compounds like solvents. Typically, adherent contain anywhere between 30-80% water depending on the composition and intended application.

How are Waterborne Adhesives Made?

Waterbone Adhesives are manufactured using water-soluble or water-dispersible synthetic polymers. The two main polymers used are acrylic and polyvinyl acetate (PVAc). These polymers contain functional groups like carboxyl and hydroxyl groups that impart water solubility or dispersibility.

To make an acrylic-based waterborne adhesive, monomers like acrylic acid, methacrylic acid etc. are suspended or dissolved in water along with an initiator. Polymerization then takes place to form long chain acrylic polymers. For PVAc-based formulations, the polymer is made first through polymerization of vinyl acetate in solvents. It is later hydrolyzed to introduce hydroxyl groups for water dispersibility.

Emulsion polymerization is commonly used to synthesize the polymers as minute particles in water. Surfactants are added to stabilize the emulsion and prevent agglomeration of polymer particles. Other additives may include thickeners, plasticizers, biocides etc. depending on the end use. The final product is a stable aqueous dispersion or solution of polymers.

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