Solvent Based vs Solvent Free

Construction adhesives play a crucial role in the building industry, providing a strong and durable bond between various materials. Traditionally, solvent-based construction adhesives have been widely used for their exceptional adhesive properties. However, concerns about their high solvent content and associated health hazards have prompted manufacturers to develop innovative solutions. One such breakthrough is the Gorilla Grab solvent-based adhesive, which has a reduced solvent base while maintaining its excellent adhesive capabilities. In this article, we will explore the purpose of solvent-based construction adhesives and delve into the advantages of the new Gorilla Grab formulation, which prioritises safety without compromising performance.

The Purpose of Solvent-Based Construction Adhesive

Solvent-based construction adhesives have been favoured for their exceptional bonding strength and versatility. They are typically used in various applications such as subfloor installations, tile setting, woodworking, and general construction projects. These adhesives are formulated to provide a durable bond between different materials, including wood, metal, concrete, ceramics, and plastics. Solvent-based adhesives excel in challenging environments, including high humidity and extreme temperatures, making them ideal for both indoor and outdoor projects.

Disadvantages of High Solvent Content

While traditional solvent-based adhesives have proven effective, they have been associated with some drawbacks, primarily due to their high solvent content. Solvents like toluene, xylene, and acetone are used to dissolve the adhesive components and aid in the bonding process. However, these solvents can be hazardous to human health and the environment. Prolonged exposure to high solvent levels may lead to respiratory problems, skin irritation, and other health concerns for installers and occupants.

Gorilla Grab – the Low Solvent Solution

To address these concerns, adhesive manufacturers have been actively researching and developing safer alternatives. Soudal, a renowned adhesive brand, has introduced a new formulation called Gorilla Grab that significantly reduces the solvent content, making it safer for both installers and occupants.

By minimising the presence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in their adhesive, Gorilla Grab has taken a significant step towards creating a healthier working environment.

Advantages of Gorilla Grab vs other Solvent-Based Adhesives

1. Lower Solvent Emission: Solvent-based adhesives emit strong odours due to the evaporation of volatile compounds. During this process the adhesive experiences some shrinkage due to the solvent loss. Gorilla Grab’s lower solvent base results in reduced shrinkage, leaving more product to do the work.
2. Safe to use on delicate substrates: Gorilla Grab’s lower solvent base has been tested as safe to use on polystyrene, where higher solvent-based products eat away at the substrate.
3. Enhanced Safety: With its lower solvent content, Gorilla Grab reduces the risk of harmful solvent exposure during installation. This makes it a safer option for construction professionals, ensuring their long-term well-being.
4. Environmentally Friendly: By lowering VOC emissions, Gorilla Grab contributes to environmental preservation. This reduction in harmful emissions helps reduce the adhesive’s impact on indoor and outdoor air quality.
5. Maintained Performance: While prioritizing safety, Gorilla Grab does not compromise on adhesive strength and performance. It retains its ability to bond various materials securely, ensuring the longevity and durability of constructed elements.

Solvent-based vs. Solvent-free

Solvent-free products obviously do not contain solvents and are generally either acrylic (water-based compounds) or polymer-based. The beauty of these adhesives is that as they cure, they do not have compounds that leave them and become absorbed into the surrounding building materials, thus making both building health and the environment improved for those working in the space. Once full cure has taken place, you will have a far higher number of solids remaining to do the work, acrylics up to 94% solids, polymers 100% solids.

There are some cases when you might opt for a solvent-based adhesive over a solvent-free alternative. For example, you may choose to use our Gorilla Grab (solvent-based) over our Gorilla Grip (solvent-free PU) because you don’t want to contend with the expansion that occurs during the curing process of Gorilla Grip. Or the fact that Gorilla Grip requires two porous surfaces to create a full bond. In the case of Gorilla Wallboard, another one of our solvent-free adhesives, it has a slower curing rate in colder conditions, meaning if you require a faster bond, Gorilla Grab may be more suitable.

Solvent-free adhesives have both advantages and disadvantages and are susceptible to environmental conditions meaning it can take longer to get to full strength. However, they provide a healthier environment and work on a far greater range of materials that are used in construction today.

With the introduction of Gorilla Grab solvent-based adhesive containing lower solvent content marks an important milestone in the construction industry. It has created more choice in the adhesive category, between a traditional solvent-based, lower solvent-based or solvent-free adhesives. Soudal has addressed the health and environmental concerns associated with traditional solvent-based adhesives, with Grab offering a safer alternative that maintains its exceptional adhesive properties. With this innovative product, installers can work with peace of mind, and building occupants can enjoy a safer and healthier environment. As adhesive manufacturers continue to prioritize safety and sustainability, we can anticipate further advancements that benefit both the construction industry and the world we live in.