Fundamentals of structural adhesives for device assembly

In the manufacture of medical devices, the selection of adhesives for device assembly and process control considerations are critical in meeting regulatory requirements. Manufacturers must consider such factors as substrate preparation, dispensing options, the curing method, and equipment needs. Common curing processes include reactive-component mixing, heat, moisture, and light curing. Common adhesive types include polyurethanes, silicones, acrylics, and cyanoacrylates. Critical issues include quality, which is ensured by spot checking critical parameters such as viscosity or bond strength; biocompatibility, tested by exposing cured adhesive extracts to control solutions; and sterilization, determined by adhesive's chemical and thermal resistance.