PVA / Water-based Adhesives

What are PVA and Water Based Adhesives?

PVA (polyvinyl acetate) or water-based adhesives are a popular type of adhesive used for a wide range of applications. They are made by mixing PVA resin with water, and the resulting mixture forms a sticky, viscous liquid that can be applied to a variety of surfaces.

PVA / Water Based Adhesives explored

Let’s explore this range of PVA adhesives in more detail.

PVA D4 Wood Glue – External PVA Adhesive – W5000XL

PVA D4 glue is a high-quality wood adhesive for use in joinery applications where D4 water resistance is required. Examples of use include: Exterior furniture, Windows, Doors, Hard and soft woods, Chipboards, MDF & Plywood in the manufacture of worktops, Panels, High pressure laminates (HPL) to chipboard, Kitchen and bathroom furniture, as well as other similar applications.

Available in the following sizes:

• 1KG PVA D4 Wood Glue – External PVA Adhesive – W5000XL
• 5KG PVA D4 Wood Glue – External PVA Adhesive – W5000XL

D3 Wood PVA – W3001

D3 Wood PVA W3001 is a high-quality wood glue which is particularly suitable for joinery applications where D3 water resistance is required such as bathroom and kitchen furniture.

D3 Wood PVA W3001 is ideal for the following applications: Wooden furniture, internal windows & doors, high pressure laminates, Suitable for hot or cold press after laminate bonding to MDF / chipboard / plywood, kitchen & bathroom furniture, and similar applications.

Available in the following size:

• 1 KG D3 Wood PVA – W3001
• 5 KG D3 Wood PVA – W3001
• 25 KG D3 Wood PVA – W3001

Padding Adhesive – W3003

Padding Adhesive W3003 is a high-quality, general-purpose high-tack and high solid, PVA. It has been designed to be used for Padding, Pattern Book, Manila file, Folding carton, 4-corner carton & fancy box manufacture. It is particularly useful for applications where a long open-time is required, & is suitable for use with all Jet application machines.

Available in the following sizes:

• 1KG Padding Adhesive – W3003
• 5KG Padding Adhesive – W3003

Paper & Board PVA – W3012

Paper & Board PVA Adhesive W3012 is an outstanding PVA, specifically designed for the craft industry. This glue is particularly used where adhesion to difficult surface is required. It has good initial tack with short open time.

It’s called Paper & Board PVA because it’s great at sticking paper and board, but it’s equally great when used for bookbinding and box-covering materials.

Available in the following sizes:

• 1KG Paper & Board PVA – W3012
• 5KG Paper & Board PVA – W3012

Paper & Material Laminating Adhesive – W3005

Paper & Material Laminating Adhesive W3005 is perfect for all applications where adhesion to difficult surfaces is required. It is designed to be used for case manufacture, board laminating, hand assembly work including labelling and covering as well as furniture foil laminations.

Available in the following sizes:

• 5KG Paper & Material Laminating Adhesive – W3005

Versatile and bonding

One of the main advantages of PVA adhesives is their versatility. They can be used for bonding paper, cardboard, wood, and a variety of other materials. Some grades are ideal for use in applications where a strong, permanent bond is not necessary, such as arts and crafts, bookbinding, and packaging. Other grades are suited to uses requiring a degree of water resistance. A D3 rating is ideal for kitchen and bathroom furniture, a D4 rating is ideal for external furniture.

Easy to use

PVA adhesives are easy to use and clean up, as they are water-soluble. They can be applied using a brush, roller, or spray, and excess glue can be easily wiped away with a damp cloth. They also have a relatively short drying time, typically between 30 minutes to one hour, depending on the temperature and humidity of the environment.

Non-Toxic and Non-Flammable Glues

In addition to their ease of use, PVA adhesives are also known for their non-toxic and non-flammable properties, making them a safer choice for use in schools, homes, and other environments where safety is a concern. They also have low VOC (volatile organic compound) emissions, which means they are less harmful to the environment compared to solvent-based adhesives. In addition to being non-toxic our entire PVA range are vegan friendly.

What does PVA stand for?

PVA stands for Polyvinyl Acetate, which is the main ingredient in water-based adhesives.

What surfaces can PVA adhesives be used on?

PVA adhesives can be used on a variety of surfaces, including paper, cardboard, hard and soft woods, chipboard, MDF, plywood and fabric.

Are PVA adhesives waterproof?

No, PVA adhesives are not waterproof and are not recommended for use in high-moisture environments. Unless you specifically select one with a high water resistance such as a PVA with a D4 rating. Whilst not strictly waterproof it has been tested to withstand the EN204 D4 standard offering a high level of water resistance.

How long does it take for PVA adhesives to dry?

The drying time of PVA adhesives can vary depending on factors such as temperature and humidity, but typically range between 30 minutes to one hour.

Can PVA adhesives be thinned with water?

Yes, PVA adhesives can be thinned with water to achieve a thinner consistency for easier application.

Are PVA adhesives toxic?

No, our PVA adhesives are non-toxic and vegan friendly making them safe for use in schools, homes, and other environments where safety is a concern.

Can PVA adhesives be used for outdoor applications?

Yes, there are certain high quality PVA adhesives that offer D4 water resistance which are suitable for outdoor use. It is important to make sure that you select the correct grade of PVA as the grades that are used for craft are not suited for external use.

How do I clean up excess PVA adhesive?

Excess PVA adhesive can be easily cleaned up with a damp cloth or sponge while it is still wet.

Can PVA adhesives be used for laminating?

Yes, clear PVA adhesives can be used for laminating papers and other materials.

How should PVA adhesives be stored?

PVA adhesives should be stored at 5-25 C, in a dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources to prevent drying out or spoiling.

Different formulations

PVA adhesives come in different formulations depending on the intended use. Thinner PVA adhesives are often used for bonding paper, cardboard, and wood, as well as in bookbinding or laminating. Thicker PVA adhesives are used for kitchen and bathroom laminates as well as outdoor furniture.

What are limitations of PVC glues?

One of the limitations of PVA adhesives is their relatively low strength compared to other types of adhesives, such as epoxy or cyanoacrylate (super glue). They are also not recommended for use in high-moisture environments, as they may break down over time.

Overall

Overall, PVA adhesives are a versatile, safe, and easy-to-use adhesive option for a wide range of applications. Whether you are a student working on an art project or a professional bookbinder, PVA adhesives can provide a reliable and effective bonding solution.

Not sure if PVA / Water based Adhesives are right for your requirements?

If you are not sure if this adhesive is correct for your requirements, please contact us to discuss your requirements and we can point you in the right direction.