Alumni

Adhesives and sealants are non-metallic substances used to bond materials together (adhesives) or to fill gaps and provide a barrier against environmental elements (sealants). While their functions overlap, a key distinction lies in their primary purpose and physical behavior after curing: adhesives are formulated to develop high tensile and shear strength to carry structural or load-bearing stresses, whereas sealants are designed to remain flexible and elastomeric to accommodate joint movement, thermal expansion, and vibration while maintaining a seal against air, water, dust, or noise. Both categories encompass a wide range of chemistries, including epoxies, polyurethanes, silicones, acrylics, and cyanoacrylates (super glues), each selected based on the substrates involved, required performance properties, and service environment.

The applications for these materials are foundational to virtually every manufacturing and construction sector. Adhesives enable lightweight construction in automotive and aerospace by bonding composites and dissimilar materials, assemble electronics and consumer goods, and are used in woodworking and packaging. Sealants are critical in construction for sealing expansion joints in buildings and bridges, glazing windows, and waterproofing bathrooms; in automotive for sealing windshields and body panels; and in industrial settings for gasketing and potting. Modern innovation focuses on developing hybrid systems that combine adhesion and sealing, fast-curing formulations for production efficiency, and sustainable products with higher bio-based content, lower volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions, and improved recyclability. By providing durable, reliable bonds and seals, these materials are essential for the integrity, performance, and longevity of countless products and structures.