Rheology Applications in Adhesives and Sealants Course
The understanding and design of rheological characteristics for adhesives, sealants and coatings is critical to product success. The rheological design governs how the material is applied, how it performs during application and how it remains in place. To most end users, rheological characteristics are reduced to one or two viscosity measurements. However, rheological problems are usually much more complex than single-point specifications. The ability to develop a rheological model and apply to product and process is key to understanding and ultimately solving complex rheological issues. This course will show how various rheology measurement techniques can be used to effectively characterize adhesive and sealant properties such as dispensing, leveling, sag, slump and stringiness.
Learning Objectives
- Understand the concept of rheology and how it differs from viscosity
- Review techniques to measure rheology including:capillary, rotational, extensional and oscillatory measurements
- Ability to relate rheology to key adhesive and sealant properties such as dispensing (stringing), sag, slump and leveling
- Learn the test methods that can be used to predict adhesive and sealant performance
Stephen E. Howe, Sunstar Engineering Americas
Stephen Howe is the R&D Manager of Structural Adhesives for Sunstar Engineering Americas. He has over 25 years' experience in leading global research, development and manufacturing groups in adhesives, sealants and coatings for automotive, wood and consumer markets. He also has experience in international business development, intellectual property management and the design and operation of manufacturing facilities. Dr. Howe earned his Ph.D in Polymer Science at Penn State University and completed Post-Doctoral studies at Stanford University under Noble Laureate Dr Paul Flory. He is also a registered patent agent.
Jason Kingrey, Sunstar Engineering Americas
Jason Kingrey is the R&D Manager of Plastisols for Sunstar Engineering Americas. He graduated from Ohio State University with a degree in chemistry. Jason's career has focused on the development of seam sealants, underbody coatings and anti-chip coatings for automotive OEM paint shop applications. In additional to his role as a product designer, he also conducts training of OEM engineers/specialists in rheology of materials to provide the knowledge to help them link product and process to improve application performance.