The methods to distinguish between hot melt adhesive and water-based adhesive include observing the characteristics, color, odor of the adhesive, as well as considering the usage scenarios and equipment requirements. ‌

Distinguish by the characteristics of the adhesive:

Hot melt adhesive is a type of adhesive that is bonded after heating and melting. It usually needs to be heated to a certain temperature before use, and has the advantage of quickly producing adhesive strength. However, special application equipment is required, and viscosity and temperature limitations may limit strength, and it may decompose under continuous heating. Hot melt adhesive becomes hard and insoluble in water after cooling, which can be judged by touch because hot melt adhesive feels sticky and easily gets on your hands.

Water glue (also known as latex) is usually an adhesive that uses water as a dispersing medium, and it does not require heating and can be used directly. The advantages of water-based adhesives include good storage stability, water resistance, and non permeability to water vapor. However, there are various adhesive application methods, high equipment requirements, and inconvenient process changes.

Distinguish by color and odor:

Water gel is generally translucent and has no pungent odor.

Hot melt adhesive is non-toxic and odorless, and is basically not used on copperplate paper.

Consider usage scenarios and device requirements:

Hot melt adhesive is suitable for applications that require quick bonding, such as packaging and shipping, but requires heating equipment and appropriate temperature control.

Water glue is more suitable for use in situations that do not require heating, such as in certain coatings or paper processing.