Various factors influence the performance of conventional (or some) acrylic pressure sensitive adhesives (PSAs) including intrinsic properties such as composition, molecular weight and degree of crosslinking. Moreover, extrinsic properties such as surface energy and roughness of the substrate have a significant influence on tack and peel adhesion. While it is well-known that the adhesion of acrylic PSAs decreases when exposed to water, the relationship between the molecular architecture and the mode/mechanisms for debonding under water is poorly characterized. In this study, we investigate the bonding and debonding of acrylic PSAs, based on 2-Ethylhexyl Acrylate-co-Acrylic acid, in aqueous environments. In particular, we investigate how water affects the initial spreading dynamics on glass substrates. We also use a small-angle peel test to characterize how the initial features of crack formation and propagation are altered in aqueous environments. Throughout, we investigate the role of molecular weight and degree of crosslinking on the spreading dynamics and mechanisms of failure in water.

Adhesion and debonding mechanisms of pressure sensitive adhesives under water

254th National Meeting (2017)

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.