Pressure-sensitive adhesives (PSAs) have a range of characteristics. Trade bodies such as FINAT, TLMI and organisations within the adhesives industry have set up standards for PSAs. These include key properties for PSAs: tack; peel strength; shear strength; die-cutting ability; adhesive bleed; ultra-violet and heat resistance; plasticiser resistance; colour and transparency; low temperature; wet conditions; and wet-out (the bonding of the adhesive to the substrate so that any air is eliminated). Additives can wide the usefulness of an adhesive such as including UV-reactive compounds; photoluminescent agents; microtaggants; metallic flakes; and phosphorescent chemicals. Water-based adhesives are based on single or blended latexes, usually acrylic. Rosin or hydrocarbon-based resins, plasticisers, and wetting agents can be added.
