Adhesives that cure quickly on exposure to light have achieved widespread acceptance in a number of industries where significant value is placed on high-speed manufacturing. In addition to their rapid cure, these adhesives are noted by their easy dispensability and high bond strength to many different substrates.
Typically these adhesive systems have been formulated for use with ultraviolet (UV) light sources. However, newer products have been formulated for use with visible light sources as well. These products allow faster cures with greater depth of cure. Light curing adhesives are often referred to as adhesives that cure "on-demand" or "on-command". This is due to the ability to adjust or align components with the adhesive in place, and only curing when the assembly is correctly positioned.
There are several polymer types that cure via light cure technology and are appropriate as adhesives. Most are based on free radical curing acrylate technologies. Other resin technologies include cyanoacrylates, silicones, mercaptoesters, and cationic epoxies. Acrylics dominate this market followed closely by the more recently developed cyanoacrylate light cured systems.