Fundamentals of adhesive bonding technology
This course module covers fundamental aspects of bonding technology. This includes knowledge about primary and secondary structures of polymers and other materials.
Bonding properties of the substrate materials
This module covers the bonding properties (bulk and surface) of metals, plastics, fiber reinforced plastics, and glass substrates. This is a key aspect for understanding the necessity for and effects of material-specific surface treatments.
Adhesives, bonding mechanisms, and application properties
The processing characteristics and curing mechanisms of different types of adhesives and their properties in the solid state are key topics here. The composition and formulation of adhesives are also covered. This module closes with a practical session to consolidate the theoretical knowledge that has been learned.
Analysis of adhesives and surfaces
This course module discusses commonly used techniques for analyzing adhesives in the liquid and cured states and for monitoring the curing process. Also covered are methods for characterizing material surfaces. This includes the following analytical methods:
• Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC)
• Thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA)
• Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA)
• Thermomechanical analysis (TMA)
• Infrared spectroscopy (IR)
• Liquid, gas, and gel permeation chromatography
• Electron spectroscopy for chemical analysis (ESCA)
• Auger electron spectroscopy (AES)
• Scanning probe microscopy (SPM)
• Transmission electron microscopy (TEM)
Adhesion
In this module the participants are given detailed insight into adhesion. Aspects of current adhesion research are also covered. The understanding of the fundamental forces and principles, which are the basis of bonding technology but which also set limitations, is used for critical appraisal of many established models, proposals, and processes. Practical assignments consolidate the theoretical knowledge.
Surface treatment
This module covers the specialized cleaning of different surfaces as well as the effectiveness and areas of application of material-specific pretreatment and post-treatment techniques.
Manufacturing technology
This course module covers the rheological behavior of adhesives as well as application and curing techniques. This includes the construction and performance of the individual components of manual, semi-automatic, and fully automatic equipment..
Joining techniques
An important aspect of the European Adhesive Engineer course is knowledge about other joining techniques that are used in combination with adhesive bonding. This module covers welding, clinching, punch riveting, and blind riveting. The aim is to identify synergies when these techniques are combined with bonding, thereby opening up new applications for which the individual techniques alone would be inadequate.
Design of bonded joints
The advanced development of design and calculation methods for bonded joints is currently a key area of research. These aspects are hence an integral part of the European Adhesive Engineer course. This course gives an insight into the fundamental analytical and numerical models that are used and describes their practical relevance. Using specific examples from industry, the procedure for solving a variety of design/constructional tasks is explained and practiced. Attention is also focused on matters relating to the evaluation of bonded joint design and the consideration of knock down factors.
In the further training to become a Adhesive Bondering Technologist, the topic of design is only relevant to the examination at EAS level.
Quality management, test methods (destructive and non-destructive), and ageing
To supplement a general quality management system, the course provides an adhesive bonding perspective on QM. The entire process chain, from the conception stage right through to the end of the service life of the product, is considered from a quality assurance perspective. The focus is also put on non-destructive test methods and the ageing of bonded joints.
Health and safety at work and environmental protection
The area of responsibility of an EAE also involves participation in decision-making on matters relating to work safety and environmental protection. The course therefore covers relevant health and environmental aspects of working with adhesives, statutory regulations, and effect protective measures for users.
Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Technology and Advanced Materials IFAM