Stephen C. Lapin, Ph.D.
Applications Specialist
PCT Engineered Systems
Electron Beam Technology for Pressure Sensitive Adhesive Applications
Electron beam technology has been used for PSA converting applications for many years. A 2003 study estimated that 9 million pounds of PSA’s were processed using EB technology with nearly 100% being captively produced and consumed. The development of new generation lower cost/lower energy EB equipment opens the possibility for more converters to take advantage of EB technology. EB crosslinking and/or curing may be used with hot-melt, solvent based, water based, or 100% reactive syrup systems. EB crosslinking of hot or warm melt systems are perhaps the most attractive. EB crosslinking provides improved shear, heat, and chemical resistance and may allow the use of hot-melt materials to replace current solvent based PSAs.