ABSTRACT
This chapter describes a guide to understand the use of the pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) raw materials. PSAs are based on macromolecular compounds and the main part of these compounds is synthesized by the chemical industry. For most PSAs, formulation is the final manufacturing step, yielding a product with the required processing and end-use properties. PSAs possess adhesion for bonding and debonding and the cohesion necessary against debonding. The optimum coating weight value depends on the chemical composition and the end use of the PSA. The most important parameters of the carrier, related to the removability of the PSA, are its flexibility and anchorage of the adhesive to the carrier. PSAs must display storage resistance; that is, they must beware their end-use characteristics for a long time. The coating technology must ensure coating of the PSA on the solid-state carrier material as a continuous, smooth adhesive layer with adequate anchorage.
