Comprehensive Investigation of Epoxy Adhesives for Structural Applications in Saudi Arabia: Mechanical Performance, Environmental Impacts, and Analysis on Health

Abstract

Epoxy adhesives possess excellent mechanical properties, durability, and stability in harsh environments, making them suitable for producing engineering materials. This study selects four commercially available epoxy adhesives in Saudi Arabia: Epotec YD 128; Sikadur®-52 LP; Sikadur®-31 CF; and Sikadur®-42 MP Slow. Firstly, a comparison of their storage, application, and service temperatures was made, detailing the hazard identification and prevention measures established in accordance with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines. Subsequently, test samples of the four adhesives were produced, and tensile, compressive, and shear tests were conducted to compare their fundamental mechanical properties. Finally, a gas analyzer assessed the major harmful gases emitted by these epoxy adhesives 120 min after mixing the epoxy resins and curing agents. The results show that Sika 42 exhibits the highest tensile and compressive strengths among other types of adhesives, reaching 75.7 MPa and 133.8 MPa, respectively. It also has the longest pot life of 48 min at elevated temperatures (40 °C), making it suitable for the climatic conditions in Saudi Arabia. However, as a three-component adhesive, its application is complex and associated with the most identified hazards. Sika 31 presents a tensile modulus of up to 10.4 GPa, at least 3.8 times higher than the other adhesives, making it practical for controlling tensile deformation. Additionally, its ultimate shear strain reaches 10.7%, at least 6.6 times higher than the other samples, highlighting its suitability for constructing ductile bonds. After mixing of epoxy resins with curing agents, the presence of NO2 and SO2 were detected. However, no harmful gases were detected after 120 min, possibly due to the complete curing of the adhesives.