Solutions That Stick: The World of Pressure-Sensitive Materials

As you wander the show floor, you may be overwhelmed by the vast number of choices available for applied graphics or pressure-sensitive substrates. How do they differ from each other? Which is the best option for a specific surface? What are best practices for printing and installation?

If you have ever wondered how pressure-sensitive adhesives (PSAs) used in the graphics and signage industry work or how to go about choosing from the vast range of adhesive solutions to best meet your needs, join 3M’s Cordell Hardy today from 1 to 2:15 pm, in Room 343, for “Mastering the Wide World of Pressure-Sensitive Materials.”

Beginning with enough of the basics to bring the novice up to speed on understanding how adhesives work, Hardy will then discuss the range of materials available, as well as the properties driving various performance features. After this session, attendees will be able to specify and execute their projects with increased confidence and cost control, using the right product for each job. From fabrication to removal — and everything between — you’ll be able to make smart choices for PSAs that will work best in your applications.

Specific topics include:

• The basics of polymer and adhesion science: why is it that all PSAs are polymers, but not every polymer is a PSA?
• An overview of adhesive material classes and test methods.
• What PSA is best for a given need? Why?

Whether you’re purchasing, designing or installing graphics and signage, adhesives play a critical role in achieving great results,” says Hardy. “Come and learn all about how adhesives work and how to make sure you are choosing the right product for your job.”

Hardy currently serves as Technical Director for 3M Commercial Solutions Division, a group responsible for products enhancing some of the world’s leading brands. Examples include graphic and architectural films for advertising and decoration, as well as cleaning and surface finish solutions for floors, glass and food service. After earning a B.S. and a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from Florida A&M and the University of Minnesota, respectively, Hardy joined 3M as a research engineer in 2003. His first assignments were in the Consumer Business Group, first as a product developer for consumer adhesives and tapes. Among those early efforts were leadership of commercially successful premium-performance crafting/stationery adhesives (see US Pat. No. 7,915,338) as well as next-generation adhesives for office tapes under the 3M Scotch Brand. In recent years, Hardy has served as an R&D manager in a variety of businesses across 3M, with each position increasing in responsibility prior to his current role.