Merrill
First Name
Marriner
Last Name
Merrill
Department
Engineering Studies
Scholarship Year
2025
Research Center
Non-Center Based
Scholarship Type
Uninvited Presentations
Contributors List
Michael J. Mussallem
Project Title
Stick With It: Testing the Limits of Adhesive Bonds
Start Date - Month
May
Start Date - Year
2025
End Date Anticipated - Month
July
End Date Anticipated - Year
2025
End Date Actual - Month
July
End Date Actual - Year
2025
Review Types
Not Applicable
Student Assistance
Undergraduate
Funding Source
Operating Budget
Resulting Product
Presentation at an RIT Undergraduate Presentation
Citation

Mussallem, Michael J. "Stick With It: Testing the Limits of Adhesive Bonds." RIT Undergraduate Research Symposium. RIT. Rochester, NY. 31 Jul. 2025. Conference Presentation.

Abstract

This study examines the Boeing Wedge Test as a dependable method for evaluating adhesive bond durability. Nine joint designs with variations in materials, geometry, and adhesive thickness were tested to simulate real-world conditions. Each design was exposed to high-temperature environments with either low humidity (75 °C, 10% RH) or high humidity (75 °C, 80% RH). Three samples per condition yielded a total of 54 samples, observed over a 6–12 week period. Daily measurements of crack growth and delamination tracked progressive bond failure. Several modifications to the test procedure enhanced efficiency and suitability for thicker, elastomeric adhesives. These adaptations addressed practical challenges in testing robust joints and improved result consistency. The study’s combined experimental and observational approach supports formalizing the Boeing Wedge Test as a standardized method for industrial quality control of adhesive systems.

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