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A structural adhesive is designed to cure into a material capable of securely bonding two or more substrates, withstanding the forces encountered throughout the product's lifespan. Often referred to as "load-bearing" adhesives, they maintain their bond integrity under conditions such as shock, vibration, chemical exposure, temperature variations, and other potentially damaging factors. These substrates can vary widely, encompassing metals, plastics, glass, rubbers, ceramics, and composites. The adhesive must sustain constant or intermittent loads and shocks without compromising the bond.

Types of adhesives suitable for structural applications include epoxies, methacrylates, UV curing adhesives, polyurethanes, and cyanoacrylate adhesives (CAs).

While not typically classified as structural adhesives, other adhesive types can also perform structural roles. Pressure-sensitive adhesives, like those used in masking tapes and Post-it® notes, have successfully been employed in structural applications. Anaerobic adhesives, such as threadlockers, are primarily used to secure fasteners and are designed to be reversible upon disassembly. However, there are instances where anaerobic curing mechanisms have been adapted for structural bonding.

Sealants, which are primarily used to fill gaps and prevent liquid ingress or contamination, can also exhibit strong adhesion properties. Silicone sealants, for example, are well-regarded for their sealing capabilities but can also function as structural adhesives in specific applications, such as in the assembly of fish tanks.

This adaptation and versatility allow American Fairfield to offer a range of adhesive solutions that meet diverse structural bonding needs across various industries and applications.