Page 7 - Handbook of Adhesives and Sealants

Preface xxi

well as successful applications will litter my presentation. I hope that
the readers will find these experiences educational and illuminating.
The Handbook of Adhesives and Sealants is a guide to the entire
field of adhesives and sealants. Although primarily directed toward
the end-user and containing important application and design data,
the Handbook also provides significant information for those inter-
ested in developing, manufacturing, marketing, purchasing, or just
generally becoming familiar with these important materials.
The initial chapter covers the importance of adhesives and sealants
and the multi-disciplined nature of the technology. Also introduced in
the first chapter are markets and applications, the functions of ad-
hesives and sealants, and common materials and processes. Major
sources of information regarding adhesives and sealants are identified
for readers interested in gaining a deeper understanding or maintain-
ing currency with this dynamic technology.
Subsequent chapters then cover important elements necessary to
determine where adhesives and sealants should and should not be
used and, when indicated, how to successfully use them. Chapters
cover adhesion theories, joint design rules, test methods, substrate
preparation methods, adhesive and sealant materials, application and
processing methods, and the effects of the service environment. The
final chapter describes how information technology is changing the
selection and knowledge gathering process.
Throughout the Handbook, specific applications and examples illus-
trate the concepts being discussed. Due to the broad nature of this
technology, the reader will often be directed from one section to other
relevant sections within the book. References at the end of each chap-
ter direct the interested reader to more in-depth information and un-
derstanding regarding specific subjects.
I wish to express a sincere ‘‘thank you’’ to all those who made my
goal of putting this Handbook together a reality. Special thanks goes
to Charlie Harper for his motivation and support and to Ron Sampson
for his mentoring and wisdom in my early days as a young research
engineer.

Edward M. Petrie