ABSTRACT
In this chapter, the authors address the controls implemented by the user of the adhesive in the manufacture of a finished product. Before the adhesive can be released for use by production, quality control, utilizing the appropriate materials specification as a guide, must inspect the adhesive in order to ensure its performance in the manufacturing process. In most cases the adhesive is applied directly to the prepared surface. However, in some cases, such as structural bonding, a primer may first be applied to ensure the ultimate performance of the adhesive. Basically, final inspection determines the quality of the finished part. Numerous tests are performed to evaluate the result of the total process, that is, adhesive material, surface preparation, adhesive application, fitting of the parts, and curing of the assemblies. Curing of the adhesive is accomplished with pressure and either the application of heat or the addition of a catalyst.
