Soudal 65A - Water Resistant D3 PVA Wood Adhesive

Health & Safety Recommendations

When using Soudal 65A – Water Resistant D3 PVA Wood Adhesive, standard workshop safety and good labour hygiene must always be observed. Work in a well ventilated area and avoid unnecessary skin and eye contact with the liquid adhesive.

Protective gloves and suitable work clothing are recommended, especially during prolonged use or when working with large bond areas. In case of accidental eye contact, rinse immediately with plenty of clean water and seek medical advice if irritation persists. Do not ingest the product and keep it out of reach of children.

Always read the product label in full and consult the Material Safety Data Sheet for detailed information on hazards, first aid measures, storage conditions and disposal guidance. Avoid discharge into drains or watercourses and store the adhesive in its closed original container in a frost free environment.

Substrate Suitability

Soudal 65A is formulated as a professional D3 PVA wood adhesive suitable for many porous and lightly non-porous building substrates. It is ideal for bonding softwood, hardwood, chipboard, MDF, plywood, blockboard and other timber based boards, as well as decorative laminates such as HPL and CPL. It may also be used on paper, carton and certain laminates in joinery and furniture production.

The adhesive relies on good absorption and wetting of the surface, so very dense or non-porous materials may give reduced bond strength. It is not designed for bonding plastics such as polyethylene or polypropylene, metals or glass. Because wood species differ in natural oils, extractives and density, and composite boards can vary in surface treatment, it is strongly recommended that a small preliminary adhesion test is carried out on every new substrate combination to verify compatibility and bond performance before proceeding with full scale work.

Surface Preparation

Correct surface preparation is critical for achieving a durable, water resistant D3 bond. All materials to be bonded should be flat, well fitting and accurately machined so that the joint closes up without excessive force. Gaps and poor contact greatly reduce bond strength and water resistance.

The bonding surfaces must be dry, clean and free from dust, loose fibres, oil, grease, release agents, old adhesive residues and other contaminants. Wipe away surface dust after machining and avoid handling joint faces with oily hands. Smooth or slightly sealed surfaces can be lightly sanded or ground to create a fresh, keyed surface and improve adhesion, particularly on laminates and decor foils.

Moisture content of timber should be within normal joinery limits to minimise movement after bonding. Avoid bonding wet or frozen wood. Once prepared, joints should be assembled within the adhesive’s open time to ensure optimum wetting and penetration.

Application Method

Soudal 65A – Water Resistant D3 PVA Wood Adhesive is supplied ready to use and must not be diluted with water or solvents, since thinning alters the solids content and compromises water resistance. Stir the adhesive gently if it has been stored to ensure a uniform consistency.

Apply a thin, even coat to one of the bonding surfaces using a notched trowel, brush, roller, bottle nozzle or suitable glue spreader, depending on the size and type of joint. For full surface bonding of panels or laminates, a notched trowel or roller helps to achieve the specified spread rate.

For assembly bonding and joint work, a brush or applicator bottle is often convenient. Typical application rates are between 80 and 140g per square metre for full surface bonding and between 160 and 180g per square metre for assembly joints, ensuring complete coverage without excessive squeeze out.

After application, bring the parts together within the open time, which is approximately eight minutes at 23°C and 55% relative humidity, and apply uniform pressure across the joint. Recommended pressing pressure is between 1kg per square centimetre and 2kg per square centimetre to ensure intimate contact and a thin, well formed glue line. Avoid disturbing the joint during the initial cure period.

Pressing Times

Pressing times for Soudal 65A depend on the type of process, substrate, temperature, adhesive spread and moisture content, but minimum values should always be observed to ensure reliable bond development.

For high frequency bonding with longitudinal heating, minimum pressing times are greater than fifteen seconds, and for decor finish applications a pressing time of approximately five to ten seconds is typical, assuming correct temperature and pressure.

For conventional assembly bonding of components such as frames and carcasses, the minimum pressing time is generally between eight and fifteen minutes under the recommended pressure. When bonding joints and block bonding of boards, a minimum pressing time of between ten and fifteen minutes should be allowed.

For surface bonding of HPL or CPL laminates in short cycle presses at an operating temperature around 70°C, typical minimum pressing times are approximately ninety seconds to plywood substrates and about forty five seconds to chipboard substrates.

These figures are indicative; in all cases, actual pressing times must be adjusted in line with workshop conditions, wood species and joint geometry, and it is good practice to carry out small trials to confirm adequate cure before reducing clamping times.

Coverage

Coverage is determined by the joint type, surface texture and application method, but the product data for Soudal 65A provides clear guidance. For full surface bonding, such as laminating boards or bonding decor foils and veneers, consumption is usually between 80 and 140g per square metre, applied as a consistent, continuous film without bare patches.

For assembly bonding of smaller cross section joints and construction joints, such as mortise and tenon, dowel joints or tongue and groove, a slightly higher spread rate of approximately 160 to 180g per square metre is recommended to ensure adequate wetting of both faces and compensation for absorption into end grain.

Working to these coverage rates helps to maintain the correct glue line thickness needed for high strength, water resistant D3 performance without unnecessary waste or excessive squeeze out.

Drying Time

Drying and curing of Soudal 65A – Water Resistant D3 PVA Wood Adhesive occur by physical drying and coalescence of the PVAc dispersion as water is absorbed into the substrate and evaporates.

The open time at 23°C and 55% relative humidity is approximately eight minutes, providing a workable window for assembly. After the minimum pressing time has elapsed, the joint will generally have sufficient initial strength for careful handling, although full bond strength continues to develop over several hours.

The exact curing time is strongly influenced by wood species, joint geometry, adhesive spread, ambient temperature and humidity, and the porosity of the materials being bonded. Dense timbers, thicker glue lines and lower temperatures will slow drying.

As a guide, joints should not be subjected to full mechanical stress, machining, or high moisture exposure until the adhesive has cured fully, typically within twenty four hours under normal workshop conditions.

Working in the recommended temperature range, above the minimum film forming temperature of 5°C, is essential for proper film formation and final water resistance.

Cleaning

While still wet, Soudal 65A PVA wood adhesive can be cleaned from tools, equipment and substrates using clean water. It is advisable to wipe away squeeze out and spills immediately with a damp cloth before the adhesive begins to skin or cure.

Once cured, the adhesive becomes water resistant and can no longer be removed with water or standard cleaners; in such cases it must be removed mechanically by scraping, sanding or planing. To avoid staining or unnecessary rework, keep a cloth and clean water at hand during application and pay particular attention to visible areas and open grain timbers.

For internal machine parts and applicators, regular cleaning according to equipment manufacturer guidance will help prevent build up and maintain consistent spread rates.

Limitations

Soudal 65A – Water Resistant D3 PVA Wood Adhesive is designed for interior applications with frequent short term exposure to running or condensed water and for exterior applications not directly exposed to continuous weathering.

It is not a substitute for waterproof structural adhesives in situations involving permanent water immersion or full external exposure without protection. The adhesive should not be diluted or modified, since altering the formulation reduces solids content and compromises D3 water resistance. Bonding should not be carried out at temperatures below the minimum film forming temperature of 5°C, as this may result in a weak or chalky bond line.

Some timbers, such as beech and cherry, contain natural extractives and tannins that can occasionally cause discolouration at the glue line, particularly if moisture migrates before full cure; trial joints are recommended where appearance is critical. The product is not intended for bonding low energy plastics such as polyethylene or polypropylene, nor for metals, glass or very smooth non-porous surfaces without appropriate pre-treatment.

Always ensure the joint design and timber moisture content are appropriate for the service conditions and that surfaces are not contaminated with oils, preservatives or release agents.

Other Information

Soudal 65A – Water Resistant D3 PVA Wood Adhesive is a high viscous PVAc dispersion with a density of approximately 1.10g per millilitre and a solids content around 50%. Viscosity is typically in the range of 8,000 to 15,000 mPa.s (Brookfield), allowing easy application while maintaining good hold-up on vertical or edge surfaces.

The adhesive has a pH between 2.5 and 3.5 and a minimum film forming temperature of about 5°C, which should be considered when planning workshop conditions and winter working. Classified as EN204 D3, it offers excellent water resistance for interior high humidity and sheltered exterior uses when correct joint design, application and curing conditions are followed.

For the best long term performance, bond only properly conditioned timber, design joints to shed water wherever possible, and finish exterior joinery with appropriate coatings. Always store the adhesive in its original, tightly closed container in a cool, frost free place and use it within the recommended shelf life.

By combining good workshop practice with the technical characteristics of Soudal 65A, users can achieve strong, durable, water resistant wood bonds suitable for demanding modern joinery and furniture applications.

Q) What is Soudal 65A – Water Resistant D3 PVA Wood Adhesive and what is it designed for?

A) Soudal 65A – Water Resistant D3 PVA Wood Adhesive is a ready to use, high performance PVA wood glue developed for interior and sheltered exterior joinery where moisture resistance is critical. It creates a strong, transparent bond line on timber and wood based materials and is suitable for professional joiners, furniture makers and serious DIY users. The D3 classification means it can cope with frequent humidity and short term water exposure, making it ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, utility rooms and protected external joinery where a standard interior D2 wood adhesive would not provide adequate durability.

Q) Where should Soudal 65A Water Resistant D3 PVA Wood Adhesive typically be used?

A) Soudal 65A Water Resistant D3 PVA Wood Adhesive is intended for interior areas with high humidity and for exterior applications that are sheltered from direct weathering. Typical uses include kitchens, bathrooms, utility rooms, plant rooms, interior door and window frames, and furniture in moist environments. It is also widely used in covered exterior locations such as porches, canopies, sheltered soffits and partly protected timber assemblies. Provided the woodwork is not in permanent contact with water or fully exposed to driving rain, this D3 adhesive gives long term, reliable bonding performance in demanding service conditions.

Q) What materials can Soudal 65A – Water Resistant D3 PVA Wood Adhesive bond?

A) Soudal 65A – Water Resistant D3 PVA Wood Adhesive is formulated for porous and lightly non porous substrates commonly encountered in joinery and furniture manufacture. It bonds softwood, hardwood, chipboard, MDF, plywood, blockboard and many other timber based boards. It also adheres to veneers, decor foils, HPL and CPL laminates on suitable cores, as well as paper and carton in decorative work. The adhesive relies on penetration into the surface, so dense, sealed or non porous materials such as metals, glass and low energy plastics like polyethylene and polypropylene are unsuitable unless pre treated or bonded with a different adhesive technology.

Q) What does the D3 rating of Soudal 65A Water Resistant PVA Wood Adhesive actually mean?

A) The D3 rating of Soudal 65A Water Resistant PVA Wood Adhesive refers to EN204, the European standard for water resistant wood adhesives. A D3 adhesive is suitable for interior use where joints are frequently exposed to high humidity or short term running and condensed water, and for exterior use in locations that are sheltered from direct weathering. This includes window and door frames that are protected by appropriate coatings and detailing. D3 is significantly more moisture resistant than D2, but it is not a fully waterproof, immersion grade system. For constantly wet, fully exposed or structural exterior work, higher level systems are required.

Q) Is Soudal 65A – Water Resistant D3 PVA Wood Adhesive suitable for exterior joinery?

A) Soudal 65A – Water Resistant D3 PVA Wood Adhesive is suitable for sheltered exterior joinery where the timber is protected by design and surface coatings, rather than exposed directly to continuous driving rain or standing water. It can be used for door and window frames, external trims and other timber elements under canopies or overhangs, provided good detailing prevents prolonged wetting of the joints. For fully exposed exterior work such as open cladding, garden furniture or structures subject to long term saturation, a higher performance adhesive system and full weatherproof design are needed to ensure adequate durability over time.

Q) How should surfaces be prepared before using Soudal 65A Water Resistant D3 PVA Wood Adhesive?

A) For best results with Soudal 65A Water Resistant D3 PVA Wood Adhesive, bonding faces must be flat, well fitting and clean. Remove dust, loose fibres, oil, grease, release agents and old adhesive residues, since these interfere with wetting and penetration. Timber should be at a normal joinery moisture content, not freshly saturated, frozen or excessively wet. Smooth or slightly sealed surfaces, especially laminates and decor foils, may benefit from light sanding to create a fresh keyed surface, followed by thorough dust removal. Once prepared, joints should be assembled within the adhesive’s open time so the glue can properly soak into the substrate.

Q) How do you apply Soudal 65A – Water Resistant D3 PVA Wood Adhesive and what open time does it give?

A) Soudal 65A – Water Resistant D3 PVA Wood Adhesive is supplied ready to use and must not be diluted. Stir gently if required, then spread a thin, even coat on one bonding surface using a nozzle, brush, roller or notched spreader, depending on the joint type. Typical consumption is around 80–140 g/m² for full surface laminations and 160–180 g/m² for assembly joints. After application, bring the parts together within the open time, roughly eight minutes at 23°C and 55% relative humidity, then apply uniform pressure. Working outside this window risks poor wetting and reduced bond performance.

Q) What clamping pressure and pressing time are recommended for Soudal 65A D3 PVA Wood Adhesive?

A) Soudal 65A D3 PVA Wood Adhesive generally requires a pressing pressure between 1 kg/cm² and 2 kg/cm² to create a thin, continuous glue line with intimate contact across the joint. For normal assembly bonding of frames and carcasses, minimum pressing times are typically 8–15 minutes in standard workshop conditions. Joints and block bonding should remain clamped at least 10–15 minutes. Laminating HPL or CPL in short cycle presses at about 70°C usually requires from 45 to 90 seconds, depending on substrate. These values are indicative; actual times must be adjusted for temperature, humidity, wood species and joint geometry, with trials used to refine settings.

Q) How water and temperature resistant is a cured Soudal 65A – Water Resistant D3 PVA Wood Adhesive joint?

A) Once fully cured, a Soudal 65A – Water Resistant D3 PVA Wood Adhesive joint offers excellent resistance to frequent short term water contact, high humidity and typical domestic temperature fluctuations. The PVAc film penetrates into the timber fibres and forms a durable bond line that resists softening under normal service temperatures, including sun heated joinery and centrally heated interiors. While highly resistant for D3 applications, it is not intended for permanent immersion, boiling water conditions or continuous exterior exposure without adequate protection. Correct joint design, compatible coatings and appropriate detailing are still essential to maximise the adhesive’s long term performance.

Q) How can excess Soudal 65A Water Resistant D3 PVA Wood Adhesive be cleaned during and after use?

A) While still wet, Soudal 65A Water Resistant D3 PVA Wood Adhesive can be cleaned from tools, machinery and substrates using clean water. It is best to remove squeeze out immediately with a damp cloth or sponge, taking care not to spread glue across visible surfaces. Once the adhesive starts to cure, it becomes more difficult to remove and, after full cure, is effectively water resistant and must be removed mechanically by scraping or sanding. To maintain consistent spread rates, equipment such as rollers and applicators should be cleaned regularly in accordance with manufacturer guidance, preventing dried adhesive build up on working surfaces.

Q) What are the main limitations of Soudal 65A – Water Resistant D3 PVA Wood Adhesive?

A) The main limitations of Soudal 65A – Water Resistant D3 PVA Wood Adhesive relate to exposure conditions and substrate type. It is not suitable for permanent immersion, continuously wet joints or fully exposed exterior structures without protection, as D3 is not a fully waterproof structural classification. It should not be diluted or mixed with other products, since this alters solids content and compromises water resistance. The adhesive is not designed for low energy plastics, metals, glass or very smooth non porous surfaces. Bonding must not be carried out below its minimum film forming temperature of around 5°C, and very resinous or tannin rich timbers may need testing for appearance.

Q) How should Soudal 65A – Water Resistant D3 PVA Wood Adhesive be stored and what basic safety measures apply?

A) Soudal 65A – Water Resistant D3 PVA Wood Adhesive should be stored in its original, tightly closed container in a cool, frost free place, away from direct heat and sunlight. Freezing can irreversibly damage the dispersion. In use, normal workshop precautions apply: avoid prolonged skin contact, prevent splashes into the eyes, and work in a reasonably ventilated area. Protective gloves and eyewear are advisable for regular users. If the adhesive enters the eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of clean water and seek medical advice if irritation persists. Keep the product away from children, food and drink, and consult the label and safety data sheet for full guidance.

Technical Data Sheet

Safety Data Sheet

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