Historically, clear adhesives designed to adhere rubber to metal have created a whole host of processing and detection challenges unto themselves. Specifically the end users, who apply these materials commercially, have no conventional methodology for visual detection much less quantifying dry film thickness. This, in turn, eliminates two of the quality assurance metrics normally reported when using such adhesives. Early attempts at pigmenting these systems for visual detection were not successful. That is, the pigmented adhesives were visible, but their adhesive performance and especially stability suffered when compared to their clear analogs. This paper provides results of extensive formulating efforts dedicated to developing an entire series of optically detectable adhesives. These products will provide a new paragraph in quality assurance for clear thin coat adhesives for the processor and end use. The basis of this technology, well established in market, in summary, has not been negatively influenced. All products still provide the well-known exceptional bond performance, stability and shelf life.
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