Nanoparticle-based Adhesives vs Traditional Adhesives
As technology advances, newer, more efficient methods of doing things are continuously being developed. In the world of adhesives, a new contender has emerged in the form of nanoparticle-based adhesives. But how do they compare to traditional adhesives? Let's find out!
What are Nanoparticle-based Adhesives?
Nanoparticle-based adhesives are a new type of adhesive that makes use of nanoparticles, which are extremely small particles, usually between 1 and 100 nanometers. These nanoparticles are then used to create a colloid, which is a substance consisting of two or more substances in which one is dispersed as very small particles throughout the other.
These adhesives have a very high surface area, which means they have a strong bond to the surfaces they are applied to. They also have the ability to cure under UV light, which makes them ideal for use in the medical industry.
Traditional Adhesives
Traditional adhesives are those that have been used for many years and are still widely available and used today. They include things like epoxy, cyanoacrylate, and silicone adhesives, to name a few.
These adhesives work by creating a bond between two surfaces through a chemical reaction. For example, cyanoacrylate adhesives work by reacting with the moisture in the air to create a strong bond between the surfaces.
Comparison
Now that we know what both types of adhesives are, let's compare them based on a few key factors.
Strength
Nanoparticle-based adhesives are incredibly strong and have a high resistance to shear and peel forces. In fact, some nanoparticle-based adhesives have been shown to have a peel strength that is five times greater than traditional adhesives.
Cure time
Nanoparticle-based adhesives can cure much faster than traditional adhesives, especially when cured under UV light. Some of these adhesives can cure in as little as 10 seconds, while traditional adhesives can take several hours to cure.
Cost
Nanoparticle-based adhesives are generally more expensive than traditional adhesives, but their strength and fast cure time can make them a cost-effective choice in some situations.
Health and Safety
Nanoparticle-based adhesives are generally considered safer to use than traditional adhesives, as they don't contain some of the harsh chemicals that traditional adhesives do.
Conclusion
In conclusion, nanoparticle-based adhesives have several advantages over traditional adhesives, including their incredible strength, fast cure time, and safety. However, they are more expensive, so their cost-effectiveness will depend on the situation. Nevertheless, they are a promising technology that we can expect to see more of in the future.
References
- Lu, B., & Török, T. (2017). Nanoparticle-based adhesives: from nature-inspired design to practical applications. Journal of Adhesion Science and Technology, 31(24), 2597-2618.
- https://www.designworldonline.com/nanoparticle-based-adhesives-create-strong-self-healing-bonds/