Pressure-sensitive adhesives (PSAs) are used in many automotive assembly applications, including mirrors, nameplates, headliners, interior trim, carpet, air ducts and weather stripping. These adhesives produce strong, permanent bonds on low-surface-energy plastics and other difficult materials despite long-term exposure to heat, humidity and other environmental extremes.
In automotive applications, PSAs offer several advantages compared with mechanical fasteners. They bond instantly. They distribute stress across the entire bonded area. They obviate the need to drill or tap holes. They improve aesthetics by eliminating protrusions, such as rivets or screw heads. They absorb sound and vibration. And, they seal out water and dust.