ATN develops patented innovation in adhesive bonding technology

In cooperation with the IPF (Leibniz Institute for Polymer Resarch Dreden e.V.) , ATN has developed a patented and novel process called "graduated bonding", which increases the load capacity of structural bonded joints by up to 50 %. The improved load capacity of bonded joints opens up to profound new applications in various industries. These include expanding freedom of designs and manufacturing as well as material savings in the use of adhesives and substrate materials.

Structural adhesive joints exhibit variable stress peaks within the adhesive layer under tensile loads and large overlap lengths. An overload in stress of the adhesive layer can lead to failure of the bonded joint.

ATN and the IPF have collaborated to develop graduated bonding, a process that has been shown to reduce the stress peaks within an adhesive layer, thereby increasing the load capacity of structural bonded joints. In this way, load optimization is achieved, which means that structural bonded joints can transmit significantly higher loads.

By changing the mixing ratios in an adhesive joint, the flexibility of the adhesive mixture is being influenced. This happens with the help of ATN’s EVD dosing units. The corresponding variable adhesive mixture is achieved by means of an adapted control technology. The graduated adhesive joint is achieved by applying the differently mixed adhesive compounds to the workpiece.

This type of application and the application of graduated adhesive layers achieve significantly optimized adhesive bonds compared to standard bonds. For large overlap lengths, the breaking force can thus be increased by up to 50%, and larger overlap lengths can be subjected to greater loads or the area of bonded joints can be reduced while maintaining the same load. The advantages for bonding applications and for future applications of adhesive bonding technology are manifold.

The results of tests and research are clear:

  • more stable bonded joints
  • increased design freedom in construction
  • savings in material (adhesive, substrate)

Together with the construction of the new Hall 3 and the expansion of the research and development center at the headquarter in Oppach, this is a very clear step towards a successful future and proves that the hard work of the previous years is bearing fruit.
With ATN's independent subsidiaries spread around the globe, this investment is intended to further expand the focus on research and development in order to continue to develop and shape new developments in adhesive bonding technology, but also in other areas, as an innovative pioneer.

High development potential for graduated bonding!

To further advance graduated bonding and to implement it successfully in the industry, more exemplarity cases and bold decisions are needed. Reach out and conservate with our technical experts in our knowledge hub and learn more about the new graduated bonding process.






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