High temperature adhesives for structural applications - a review

The requirement for high temperature adhesives in the aero engine industry is assessed and the reasons for the choice of polyimide adhesives as prime candidates are discussed. Cure chemistry of these resins is describe and the recent development of polyimides that cure by addition mechanisms is reviewed. Currently available adhesives are listed and two typical formulations (FM34 and A7F) are discussed in more detail giving some “as cured” and “thermally aged” properties. The necessity for the provision of special accessory materials and curing facilities in order to process these adhesives at the required temperatures is explained.