Adhesive term
Hotmelt adhesive(HM)
A rubber-based adhesive coated hot with no solvent or water. Gives very high initial tack on cartons, textured board and plastics, but softens above roughly 60 °C and yellows under long UV exposure.
Related adhesive terms
- Permanent adhesiveAn adhesive that builds a bond strong enough that the label cannot be removed cleanly. Most product labelling uses permanent acrylic for its clarity, ageing and chemical resistance.
- Removable adhesiveAn adhesive with controlled, low ultimate bond so the label peels off cleanly within a stated period. Used for promotions, returnable containers and temporary marking.
- Wash-off adhesiveAn adhesive designed to release cleanly in a caustic wash — typically 1–2% NaOH at 80 °C — so PET bottles and returnable glass can be recycled or refilled without label residue.
- Wet-outThe flow of adhesive into the microscopic texture of a surface after application. Bond strength keeps building for up to 24 hours, which is why bond tests should be read at 24 hours, not immediately.