Water-Based Adhesives
What is a water-based adhesive?
A water-based adhesive uses water as the carrier instead of organic solvents. After application, water leaves the glue line and the polymer forms the bond. Water-based adhesives are used to reduce solvent emissions, odor, and flammability compared with traditional solvent spray adhesives.
Simalfa is a solvent-free, water-based industrial adhesive brand manufactured by Alfa Adhesives Inc. in Oakland, New Jersey, USA. Simalfa products are designed primarily for bonding foams, fabrics, fibers, and other porous substrates.
Not all water-based adhesives are the same
There are many adhesive manufacturers marketing water-based adhesive products. Simalfa formulations are either patented or considered trade secrets and therefore are not similar to products produced by other manufacturers. Products of similar types from various manufacturers are not identical. To choose a technology for an application, first understand the product type and chemical make-up.
One-component vs. two-component
A one-component (1K) adhesive is applied as supplied and does not require an activator to create the intended bond. A two-component (2K) product combines adhesive and activator, typically blended at the tip of a special spray gun. Two-component systems generally require more technical knowledge to run consistently. Simalfa publishes both 1K grades (for example 309) and 2K grades (for example 822-OF).
Natural latex vs. synthetic latex
Natural latex is rubber harvested from the rubber tree. Synthetic latex is produced through chemical technology. Synthetic latex adhesives are used when a process needs more consistent performance than natural latex typically provides. Simalfa water-based adhesives are synthetic systems designed for industrial foam and fabric bonding.
Instant tack versus dry-to-touch water-based adhesives
Some water-based adhesives must dry before parts can be joined. Many Simalfa grades are designed for instant tack: parts can be placed together immediately after spraying. That handling bond is not the same as full cure, which continues as remaining water leaves the glue line. See tack vs. cure.
Where water-based adhesives are used
Simalfa water-based adhesives are used in foam fabrication, mattress manufacturing, furniture, transportation interiors, packaging, and insulation. Related comparisons: Simalfa vs solvent adhesives and Simalfa vs hot melt.
