Bostik has launched Born2Bond™ Ultra K85, the first-ever instant engineering adhesive processed from 60% bio-based raw materials. The adhesive withstands up to 1,000 hours of a typical ‘double 85’ test, where adhesives are exposed to 85°C heat and 85% relative humidity, delivering premium performance, while not compromising on safety, health or the environment.
Born2Bond™ Ultra K85 has been created for design engineers, product designers and manufacturers looking for an ultra-durable adhesive that provides exceptional resistance to humidity and high temperatures, with very low water absorption rates. The product provides greater protection to products exposed to variable environmental conditions, such as consumer electronics, outdoor lighting, children’s water toys, electric toothbrushes, medical devices and automotive parts.
The adhesive retains 97% of its strength up to 1,000 hours, with its threshold being over five times greater than the best benchmark of its competitors. When tested on Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) specifically, a commonly-used engineering thermoplastic, it can withstand up to 2,500 hours of the double 85 test. It also retains 87% of its strength after 168 cycles between –40°C and 80°C, which is unprecedented for any fast-acting engineering adhesive.
As a further important benefit, the adhesive is also made from 60% bio-based raw materials, helping to support users’ sustainability targets without compromising on performance. The product benefits from Bostik’s parent company Arkema’s ‘Pragati’ sustainable castor bean farming programme. Castor beans do not compete for space with food, do not require deforestation and are profitable for the farmers – thus benefitting the areas that they are grown, as well as the programme providing Bostik control of its supply chain.
The formulation has low exothermicity, meaning it does not emit high temperatures while bonding and therefore reduces stress on bonded surfaces. This is important for delicate surfaces such as circuit boards that can be damaged when exposed to high heat. This also reduces emitted fumes, which combined with its mild odour, make its use safer and more comfortable for the end user.
Ultra K85 is also much less brittle than similar cyanoacrylates and better at bonding dissimilar materials, whether they be metal, plastic, glass or wood. When applied to a flexible substrate and bent, Ultra K85 will not result in small cracks that can occur with standard cyanoacrylates. Ideal for luxury goods and consumer electronics product designers looking for premium aesthetics, Ultra K85 has low bloom properties, leaving less white residue once cured.
Polivio Goncalves, Bostik’s Head of Engineering Adhesives, says the performance of Bostik’s patented Born2Bond™ Ultra K85 has surpassed expectations:
“We are thrilled to bring to the market this first-of-kind product that so directly addresses a key pain-point of product designers, design engineers and manufacturers looking for ultra durability for products that must withstand prolonged exposure to heat and humidity. The launch of Born2Bond™ Ultra K85 highlights Arkema’s unique capabilities in specialty materials, which enable us to develop innovative and sustainable solutions, leveraging bio-based materials and proprietary technology.”.
To order a free sample of Bostik Born2Bond™ Ultra K85 visit: born2bond.bostik.com/en/products/instant-adhesives/ultra-k85
