1.1.12 Chemical Joint: Solvent Welding
1.1.12 Chemical Joint: Solvent Welding
Solvent welding uses a solvent to dissolve the surfaces of two chemically similar plastic parts. When the two parts are pressed together and the solvent evaporates, the surfaces are permanently fused. Solvent welding is used for plastics like PVC and ABS, which may be dissolved by solvents. The solvent must be chosen for the specific plastic being welded. Plastics that are not vulnerable to solvents, such as PP and PE, cannot be solvent welded. Manufacturers with concerns about solvents may avoid using this technique.