This new, two-component epoxy resin provides unprecedented process speed for epoxies. In just a couple of seconds, light fixation secures components so they won’t slip and ensures that the entire assembly process moves along quickly. After an irradiation time of only five seconds, at an intensity of 1000 mW/cm², fixing strength of 1 N/mm² is achieved.

Reliable final curing, including shadowed areas, is done the same way as regular two-component products, either at room temperature or at a faster speed by using heat curing at 80 °C for 60 minutes

Curing at room temperature is generally more attractive to users because it saves them from investing in an oven, space on the production floor, as well as on energy costs. Light fixation, combined with final curing at room temperature, drastically reduces cycle time and increases throughput rates. Since dispensing, joining, and light fixation take less than a minute when using DELO-DUOPOX DB8989, the next production step can begin much faster than the usual 15 to 90 minutes.

This new technology simplifies logistics so much that the products do not need to be transported and stored in a cooled state. A storage life of 12 months enhances production flexibility and enables the use of larger, more cost-effective containers.

“This new development is nothing short of revolutionary,” says Karl Bitzer, Head of Product Management at DELO. “It combines the benefits of light curing with the strengths of two-component products. In the future, all users will need is a mixing system and lamps. Ovens, energy and space on the shop floor can be saved, not to mention a huge amount of time.”

DELO-DUOPOX DB8989 provides good strength even when exposed to high temperatures and humidity. The adhesive is able to achieve a tensile shear strength of 28 MPa on aluminum.  This value is maintained during the aging simulations required in the automotive industry, for instance, after 500 hours storage at 85 °C and 85% relative air humidity or at 150 °C. Because of this, it can be used for structural bonding of rare earth magnets in electric motors. The product is also suitable for opto-electronic applications in cameras for automated driving due to low outgassing and shrinkage.

Two-component adhesives are well known for good strength, reliable curing at room temperature, good media resistance and easy logistics. Until now, the time lapse before reaching initial strength was deemed a major disadvantage for many high-volume applications. In the future, DELO plans to develop several other two-component products with light fixation, including encapsulants for the sensor industry.

Technical Specifications

• Light fixation in up to five seconds
• Fixing strength of 1 N/mm²
• Cures at room temperature
• Storage life of 12 months
• Final strength of 28 MPa on aluminum
•  Excellent resistance when exposed to high temperatures and humidity