When carrying out construction and repair work, as well as for domestic purposes, an adhesive of increased strength is often required. This is a two-component polymer-based adhesive, the fixing ability of which is due to the peculiarities of the chemical reactions between the two components of this composition.
Features of the
Two-component adhesive is a composition of polyester compounds and a hardener, which are mixed in the required proportions before use. Both components are polymers, but I demonstrate their ability to reliably fix the elements only when mixed in a given ratio. Typically, this is 9: 1.
After adding to the polymer component, the mixture is thoroughly mixed using a construction mixer until smooth, after which it must be used immediately.
This adhesive is characterized by improved adhesion to various substrates. It is suitable for fixing parquet, but also laminate, block parquet, parquet boards and mosaics, and can also be used in the process of laying warm floors, cladding horizontal and vertical substrates.
The absence of water (which causes deformation of wood flooring) and solvents makes the two-component adhesive safe for all types of parquet and flooring. In addition, the composition is flexible, so there is no damage to the parquet when changing its geometry during the "jumps" in temperature and humidity levels.
The principle of operation of the composition is based on the reactions that occur when mixing the components of the glue. This, in turn, determines the elasticity of the composition, the absence of shrinkage and a shortened setting time of the glue. Complete drying occurs within 24-48 hours after application. After this time, you can proceed to further construction work, if any.
The glue is not afraid of moisture (does not absorb, does not collapse, does not lose its characteristics when in contact with water), it is a dielectric. The glue is produced in a plastic bucket (here the emulsion is contained) and a plastic bag included with it with a hardener in the form of a powder or liquid.
Views
Depending on the compositional characteristics, two-component glue is of the following types:
Polyurethane
The composition is based on polyurethane, which provides its improved elasticity (up to 30-40%). In addition to elasticity, it demonstrates environmental friendliness (today you can find a hypoallergenic modification on sale), does not emit an unpleasant odor during the application and drying process. Elastic and non-shrinking, suitable for all types of wood.
Epoxy-polyurethane
In addition to polyurethane, it contains epoxy resin, which reduces the elasticity of the mixture to 15-20%. It is characterized by an unpleasant odor and release of toxins during application and drying, therefore work can only be carried out in well-ventilated rooms.
Suitable for small parquet boards up to 15 cm wide made of sustainable wood, as well as plywood fasteners (for example, under a warm floor). In the latter case, you can refuse to fix with self-tapping screws due to the improved strength characteristics of the glue.
A thixotropic composition with the addition of epoxy resins is also suitable for facing works - fixing tiles and mosaics.
Acrylic
Two-component modified dispersed composition with a liquid content not exceeding 30%. It consists of an activator that is applied directly to the surface and an adhesive that is applied over the activator.
Acrylic two-component adhesive is not suitable for use in conditions of low humidity and negative temperatures. Therefore, it is not recommended for outdoor use.
Adhesive for polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
It is characterized by long-term viability, and, as a rule, is used in the factory (a special version of it is produced - ZM, applied with the help of special equipment), for the repair and strengthening of engineering structures.
Epoxy
Universal multifunctional transparent glue, suitable for bonding small parts, electronic elements.
Scope of application
Two-component adhesive is suitable for those cases when it is necessary to provide improved adhesion of various surfaces - wood and concrete, metals, leather, glass, etc. For bonding non-porous materials (except synthetic ones) epoxy-polyurethane composition is well suited.
This glue has increased strength when metal powder is added to it. In terms of its qualities, it begins to resemble "cold welding". When added to the composition of fiberglass, its strength characteristics and vibration resistance are also significantly increased. This allows the use of epoxy-polyurethane glue also for the repair of mechanisms and machines. It is suitable for aluminum, cast iron, iron, but cannot be installed over galvanized and copper surfaces.
The absence of water and solvents in the composition, as well as resistance to abrasion, thixotropy (no shrinkage of the seams) make it optimal for gluing wooden floor coverings, in particular, laying parquet floors, massive parquet boards and parquet mosaics. It also allows you to securely attach plywood to concrete and other surfaces without the use of fasteners (nails, screws).
Two-component compositions withstand high-temperature exposure well, therefore they are used when organizing a warm floor system. There is also a variety of two-component polyurethane compounds that are used as sealants. With their help, it is possible to eliminate minor seams. The ratio of emulsion and hardener in such a product is 1: 1.
Due to the strength of the bond, which guarantees the use of a two-component adhesive, it is used for laying tiles and mosaics, including heavy ceramic. Installation of tiles can be carried out both horizontally and vertically directed bases. Tile adhesive usually has a slightly higher viscosity.
The strength and adhesive properties of two-component compounds are so high that they are used to join stone, natural or artificial. As you know, this material is distinguished by its high weight and porous surface. However, the two-component product is even suitable for bonding marble, granite.
Broken glass items can easily return to their previous shape thanks to epoxy glue. This composition is transparent, so the traces of repair will remain unnoticeable.
Finally, two-component compounds, due to their strength, moisture resistance and safety, are used in shoe repair. In shoemakers, they are used primarily for gluing soles, heels and other elements. Such glue is also suitable for repairing leather and suede accessories.
Despite the wide scope of application of two-component glue, it cannot be used in places with high humidity (in such places, laying parquet is, in principle, illogical). If there is a possibility of a capillary rise of moisture, then this adhesive can only be used if there is a high-quality vapor barrier.
Do not use the glue in rooms with high air humidity and at negative temperatures. In this regard, it is not recommended to work in rooms where windows and doors have not yet been installed, as well as at negative temperatures outside the window (during ventilation, sharp "jumps" are possible).
Manufacturers
Among the most famous brands of two-component composition, there are Uzin MK 92 S. In terms of its technical characteristics, it is not inferior to the version of "Poxipol", a feature of which is its amazing adhesion rates - it sets even under water.
For bonding heavy surfaces (metal, titanium, concrete), the construction market offers the composition "Universal 302". An important point - this tool is not suitable for surfaces based on zinc, copper, polyolefins, celluloids.
For light metal, as well as plastic, wood substrates, you can use the universal glue "Interbond". One of the components of the composition is produced in the form of a viscous paste, the second has an aerosol form of release. Each of the components is applied to one of the surfaces to be glued, after which they are applied to each other.
The product "Akfix 705" is also characterized by an interesting consistency. Its uniqueness lies in the fact that the glue does not flow down, and therefore it is very convenient for attaching cladding and other materials to horizontal surfaces. It is used for plastic and wood, leather and rubber coatings.
Two-component Loctite adhesives are represented by zionacrylate compounds, which are completely safe from an environmental point of view. The range includes special compounds for cosmetic repairs, fixing rubber products, insulation of electrical wires.
3M glue has increased strength and improved adhesion, resistance to high temperature effects and vibrations. Due to its technical characteristics, it finds application in industrial conditions, although, if necessary, it can also be used for domestic needs.
For metal surfaces, you can use Scotchkote 2-component polyurethane adhesive, which is able to harden even at low temperatures. A distinctive feature of the composition is also the anti-corrosion effect it provides.
When choosing a specific composition, one should take into account the type of work (whether it is necessary to glue 2 parts, install the floor system, facing or other types of work), as well as the types of materials to be glued, their homogeneity or different textures.
Tips & Tricks
Bonding parquet to a two-component layer is not an overly complicated procedure. Usually, the instructions attached to the product explain the sequence of work in sufficient detail.
A special surface preparation can prevent a decrease in adhesive adhesion. Substrates must be clean and dry. If there are cracks and irregularities on them, they should be eliminated.
To improve the adhesion of the material allows preliminary application in 2 layers of a primer composition. The latter should be given time to dry completely, after which you can start fixing the parquet.
It is important to properly prepare the glue - a hardener is put into the viscous polymer composition, after which the whole mixture is kneaded. Do not add water, solvents or other liquids.
Some formulations do not need to be pre-mixed when gluing two elements. In this case, an emulsion is applied to one half, a hardener to the second part. The chemical reaction starts after the parts are pressed against each other.
The pot life should be considered when determining the amount of the mix to be mixed. On average, it takes from 45 to 90 minutes (you need to see more on the package), so you need to dilute as much glue as you can use during this time.
Do not attempt to "reanimate" the formulation beyond its pot life by adding solvents, polymer or water. This will make it unusable.
The finished glue is applied with a notched trowel to the working base. Better to do it in small squares. After the parquet is completely laid in this area, you can start applying glue to the next "square", etc.
When laying wooden elements, it should be remembered that they are prone to temperature changes in geometry, therefore, parquet boards are mounted with a gap of 1-2 mm. When installing parquet, it is recommended to tap the lamellas. This eliminates the risk of voids underneath.
This super-strong and strong composition dries out for 24 hours, after this time you can start sanding the floor and applying varnishes to its surface.
If glue gets on foreign surfaces, immediately remove it with a cloth and wipe the surface. After hardening, you will have to wipe off the stains with a solvent.
In case of contact with skin, immediately rinse the affected area under running water. In case of allergic reactions, as well as contact of glue on mucous membranes, you should consult a doctor as soon as possible. The use of gloves and a protective mask during work allows you to prevent such situations.
You should not refuse to use epoxy-polyurethane glue due to the content of unsafe components in it. The toxicity of the two-component composition manifests itself exclusively at the time of application, completely volatilizing as it dries.
For the features of two-component glue, see the following video.