Oxidation increases the surface energy of UHMW, allowing it to accept a pressure-sensitive adhesive. Cost savings are also realized with this type of product. Also, bondable UHMW can be adhered in continuous coils up to 0.125 inch thick. Thus, catch points and seams are virtually eliminated, producing a much smoother and efficient operation of conveyor lines and sorting equipment. In addition to being able to produce product in continuous length coils, other advantages of this process include tight thickness tolerances and low stress or flatter sheet.
Rubber based adhesive are very aggressive and work with a wide range of substrates.
They are designed for general-purpose ambient temperature applications and provide an excellent bond to stainless and polished aluminum. Acrylic adhesive systems provide good UV stability and resistance to chemicals and elevated temperatures. They are considered more stable than rubber adhesives but don't possess the high initial bond of the rubbers. Treated material is sanded on one side and oxidized making it suitable to be used with epoxy systems or contact cements. Adhesive selection needs to be based on the substrate and application requirements.