SiO2 nanoparticles in structural adhesives: Tiny particles that make a major impact

SiO2 nanoparticles manufactured on an industrial scale are already being used successfully to modify different types of adhesives and to improve their properties. In combination with reactive liquid rubbers, the nanoparticles result in improved toughness and bonding in 1K and 2K. epoxy adhesives. Where increased pressure resistance or compressive strength is needed for specific applications, larger quantities of nanoparticles are required. UV-cured systems often need transparent particles. Therefore, in some electronics applications the small increase in viscosity where nanoparticles are used as a filler is of special interest. In general terms, SiO2 nanoparticles have proved to be a highly versatile and in teresting adhesive raw material. The number of industrial uses for these particles is constantly growing and ranges from unusual applications, such as jewellery glues, through to large-scale automotive adhesives.