Plexus® MA300 Specifications

Plexus® MA300 is a two-part methacrylate adhesive designed for structural bonding of thermoplastic, metal and composite assemblies. Combined at a 1:1 ratio, it has a working time of 4 to 5 minutes and achieves a rapid fixture in 12 to 15 minutes at room temperature. Offers a combination of high strength and stiffness as well as the ability to bond a wide range of materials. Supplied in ready-to-use cartridges.

Room Temperatures Cure Working Time: 4-6 minutes

Working time is the time elapsed between the moments parts A and B of the adhesive system are combined and thoroughly mixed and the time when the adhesive is no longer useable. Times presented were tested at 75°F.

Fixture Time: 12 – 15 minutes

Fixture time is the interval of time after which surface being joined will support a 2 lb (1 kg.) dead weight on a ½ inch (12.7 mm) overlap joint 1 inch (25.4 mm) wide without movement. Times presented were tested at 75°F.

Flash Point: 51°F

Operating Temperature: -67°F to 250°F

Gap filling: to 0.125"

Mixed Density: 8.20 lbs/gal. (0.98 g/cc)

Chemical Resistance: Excellent resistance to Hydrocarbons, acids and bases (3-10 pH), and salt solutions. Susceptible to polar solvents, and strong acids and bases.(Resistance to chemical exposure varies greatly based on several parameters including; temperature, concentration, bondline thickness, and duration of exposure. The chemical resistance guidelines listed assumes long term exposure at ambient conditions.)

Recommended for: ABS, Acrylics, Aluminum (Plexus Primer Suggested), FRP, Gelcoats (urethane-modified super-weathering gelcoats may require an alternate adhesive. As with all substrates, these gelcoats should be tested with the selected adhesive to determine suitability.

PVC, Polyesters (including DCPD modified), Steel, Carbon (Exterior applications require the use of coatings or primer that will inhibit oxidation of the steel).

Steel, Stainless (Plexus Primer Suggested), Styrenics, Urethanes (General), Vinyl Esters

Physical Properties (uncured) - Room Temperature

Mechanical Properties (Cured) – Room Temperature

Handling and Application

Plexus ™ MA 300 Adhesive (parts A and B) is flammable. Contents include Methacrylate Ester. Keep container closed after use. Wear gloves and safety glasses to avoid skin and eye contact. Wash with soap and water after skin contact. In case of eye contact, flush with water for 15 minutes and get medical attention. Harmful if swallowed. Keep out of reach of children. Keep away from heat, sparks, and open flames. Reference MSDS for more complete safety information.

Note: Because of the rapid curing features of this product, large amounts of heat are generated when large masses of material are mixed at one time. The heat generated by the exotherm resulting from the mixing of large masses of adhesive can result in the release of entrapped air, steam, and volatile gases. To prevent this use only enough material as needed for use within the working time for the produce and confine gap thickness to no more that 0.125”. Questions on handling and applications they should be directed to ITW Plexus at 800-851-6692.

Dispensing Adhesive

To assure maximum bond strength, surfaces must be mated within specified working time. Use sufficient material to ensure the joint is completely filled when parts are mated and clamped. All adhesive applications, part positioning, and fixturing should occur before the working time of the mix and clamped. After indicating working time, parts must remain undisturbed until the fixture time is reached.

Cleanup is easiest before the adhesive has cured. Citrus terpene and n-methyl pyrolidone (NMP) containing cleaners and degreasers can be used for best results. If the adhesive is already cured, careful scraping, followed by a solvent wipe may be the most effective method of cleaning up.

Effect of Temperature

Application of adhesive at temperatures between 65° F and 80° will ensure proper cure. Temperature below 65° will slow cure speed; Above 80° F will increase cure speed. The viscosities of Part A and B of this adhesive are effected by temperature.

Storage and Shelf Life

The shelf life of MA300 adhesive and activator (part A and B) is 12 months from day of shipment from ITW Plexus. Shelf life is based on continuous storage between 55° F and 75° F. Long-term exposure above 75° F will reduce the shelf life of these materials. Prolonged exposure of activators, including cartridges, which contain activators, above 100° F quickly diminishes the product’s reactivity and should be avoided. Shelf life can be extended by refrigeration (45° F – 55° F. These products should never be frozen.

Note: All information is based on laboratory testing and in not intended for design purposes. ITP Plexus makes no representations or warranties of any kind concerning this data. Due to variance of storage, handling, and application of these materials, ITW plexus cannot accept liability for results obtained. ITW Plexus recommends all substrates be tested with the selected adhesive to determine appropriate suitability.