What type of adhesives would you categorize cyanoacrylates under?

Cyanoacrylates are categorized as chemically activated adhesives. This classification is appropriate because cyanoacrylate adhesives bond when anionic polymerization occurs in the presence of moisture, which is typically found in the air or on the surfaces being bonded. This type of reaction does not require heat or pressure to initiate the bonding process, which distinguishes them from heat-activated adhesives or pressure-sensitive adhesives.

The mechanism by which cyanoacrylate adhesives cure involves the chemical reaction with hydroxyl ions, allowing for a strong bond to form rapidly once they come into contact with moisture. This efficiency and quick setting time are key characteristics of cyanoacrylates, making them popular for various bonding applications, especially in medical and everyday household situations.

Other adhesive types, such as natural adhesives, do not typically result from a chemical reaction involving moisture in this manner, which reinforces the classification of cyanoacrylates as chemically activated.