How to buy high-quality polyurethane adhesive: 5 tips for choosing the right glue

      August 11, 2025 14:25

      [156]

      Society

      Polyurethane adhesives are used in virtually every area of construction: from furniture manufacturing to the installation of sports facilities. Adhesive for rubber crumb is especially in demand; it is used to create durable, injury‑safe surfaces on children's and sports playgrounds, as well as around pools and in entrance areas.

      But often when purchasing adhesive independently, problems arise that lead to rapid surface deterioration and additional repair costs. We will look at 5 key tips that will help you buy a truly high‑quality polyurethane adhesive.

      Tip #1: Determine the intended use of the adhesive

      Polyurethane adhesives come in one‑ and two‑component varieties and differ in viscosity, bonding strength, and curing time. Each type has a specific area of application:

      - Adhesive for rubber crumb (children's and sports playgrounds)

      - Formulations for installing artificial turf

      - Adhesives for woodworking and furniture production

      - Specialized formulations for SIP panels and thermal insulation materials

      For laying rubber crumb, use a two‑component polyurethane adhesive with high elasticity and stable adhesion to changes in temperature and humidity. For work on wood or foam, formulations with greater flowability or increased rigidity are suitable.

      Tip #2: Check the adhesive composition

      A quality polyurethane adhesive consists of several mandatory components:

      - Isocyanates (usually MDI) — the main curing agent

      - Polyols — form the adhesive's structure

      - Catalysts and modifiers — regulate curing speed and the characteristics of the bond

      If rubber crumb adhesive does not contain the correct ratio of isocyanates to polyols (usually 1:4 or 1:5), its strength and adhesion will be low. It is especially important to check for catalysts: a quality adhesive begins to cure in about 10–15 minutes and fully polymerizes within 12–24 hours.

      Tip #3: Clarify viscosity and curing time

      Viscosity affects the ease of application and the uniformity of the layer. A composition that is too viscous poorly fills pores and voids, while one that is too fluid spreads, leading to overuse.

      The optimal viscosity for rubber crumb is 3000–5000 mPa·s. Curing time is also important: too fast (less than 5 minutes) will complicate installation, while too slow (more than 30 minutes) will make the coating uneven.

      Tip #4: Study certificates and tests

      The presence of quality certificates and results of independent tests is a must when purchasing polyurethane adhesive. Pay attention to:

      - Adhesion strength (at least 1.2 MPa)

      - Resistance to ultraviolet light and temperature fluctuations

      - Toxicity and volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions

      - Frost resistance and moisture resistance (water absorption less than 1%)

      The certificate should confirm the adhesive's compliance with GOST standards and sanitary and epidemiological norms (SES). Lack of documentation should raise concerns.

      Tip #5: Evaluate cost taking consumption and durability into account

      Buyers often focus on a low price per kilogram, forgetting that adhesive consumption and the durability of the coating significantly affect the final cost of the job.

      For example, a quality polyurethane adhesive for rubber crumb typically has a consumption of about 1 kg per 5 kg of crumb. A cheap analogue may require more adhesive (up to 1 kg per 3 kg of crumb), increasing total costs by 30–40%. In addition, cheap formulations often lead to rapid deterioration of the coating.

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