Synthetic adhesives can be categorized primarily by what characteristic?

Synthetic adhesives are predominantly categorized by the manner in which they cure. This characteristic is crucial because it determines how the adhesive develops its bonding properties after application. There are several types of curing mechanisms, including solvent evaporation, moisture curing, heat curing, and chemical reactions, among others.

Understanding the curing process is essential for selecting the appropriate adhesive for a particular application. For instance, some adhesives may require heat to cure effectively, while others may set quickly at room temperature or in the presence of moisture. This classification helps engineers and craftsmen decide which adhesive will perform best under specific conditions, such as varying temperatures, humidity, and the surfaces being bonded.

Other characteristics, while important to the performance of adhesives, such as color, texture, tensile strength, and volume, play a secondary role in categorization. They may influence selection based on aesthetic or performance requirements but do not define the fundamental nature of the adhesive's functionality and compatibility in bonding tasks.