DOWSIL™ EA-3838 Fast Adhesive: High-Performance Silicone Adhesive for Encapsulation, Batteries, and Electronic Assemblies
The technological revolution driven by batteries, power electronics, and new mobility demands requires bonding solutions that combine fast processing, long-term reliability, and safety compliance.
In this context, silicone adhesives play a decisive role. DOWSIL™ EA-3838 Fast Adhesive, developed by DOW and distributed by Samaro, offers fast handling time, multi-substrate adhesion, and UL 94 V-1 compliance while delivering proven durability in harsh environments.
Why Silicone Adhesives Are Key in Modern Industry
Industrial adhesives have evolved into critical technologies rather than simple auxiliaries. Two-part silicone adhesives like DOWSIL™ EA-3838 deliver:
- Mechanical flexibility → absorbs differences in thermal expansion between materials.
- Enhanced protection → provides durable sealing against moisture, dust, and contaminants.
- Extreme resistance → maintains performance under UV, weathering, and thermal cycling.
- Industrial efficiency → reduces cycle time thanks to very short handling times.
These advantages explain why silicone adhesives are now indispensable for batteries, embedded electronics, and sensitive assemblies.
Technical Overview of DOWSIL™ EA-3838 Fast Adhesive
DOWSIL™ EA-3838 is a two-part, neutral, non-corrosive silicone adhesive designed for fast room-temperature curing.
Key Technical Data :
- Handling time: 2 to 6 minutes (depending on mix ratio)
- Skin-over time: 5 to 18 minutes
- Tack-free time: 18 to 25 minutes
- Mix ratio flexibility: 2:1 to 4:1 (base:catalyst)
- Consistency: black paste, non-self-leveling
- Operating temperature range: -50 °C to +180 °C
- Moisture durability: withstands 7 days at 70 °C in hot water
- Durable adhesion: plastics, metals, and glass
- Outstanding UV and weather resistance
- UL 94 V-1 certified: flame-retardant performance for electronics and batteries
👉 These properties make EA-3838 suitable for both fast-paced production lines and critical environments.
Understanding Handling Time, Skin-Over, and Tack-Free
The curing process of DOWSIL™ EA-3838 is defined by three key stages:
- Handling time (2–6 min) → initial fixing stage where parts can be manipulated.
- Skin-over time (5–18 min) → formation of a thin solid layer on the surface.
- Tack-free time (18–25 min) → surface is completely non-sticky, allowing safe handling.
📌 These timing milestones are critical for production planning and process optimization.
Key Applications of DOWSIL™ EA-3838
Electronics and Batteries
👉 In a sector where miniaturization and reliability are essential, DOWSIL™ EA-3838 meets the demands of electronics and battery manufacturers by ensuring fast handling and long-term protection.
- Encapsulation of printed circuit boards and power modules
- Bonding and sealing of housings
- Protection of sensitive components under thermal cycling
- Strategic use in electric and hybrid vehicle batteries
Automotive
👉 Modern vehicles integrate more and more embedded electronics and sensitive materials: DOWSIL™ EA-3838 enables efficient and secure bonding and protection of these critical components.
- Bonding of display systems (dashboards, infotainment screens)
- Sealing of embedded electronic housings
- Glass-to-metal bonding in lighting systems
Aerospace & Renewable Energy
👉 Exposed to extreme conditions, the aerospace and renewable energy markets need adhesives that are both high-performing and safe: DOWSIL™ EA-3838 provides this resistance with UL 94 V-1 compliance.
- Assemblies subjected to high thermal stresses
- Bonding of embedded electrical components
- Applications in solar and wind power modules
Appliances
👉 Household appliances require strong bonds that can withstand heat and moisture: DOWSIL™ EA-3838 delivers reliability and durability in these demanding environments.
- Glass-to-painted-metal or glass-to-plastic bonding in ovens, refrigerators, and small appliances
- Sealing in areas exposed to heat and steam
Encapsulation and Electronic Assemblies: A Growing Market
The booming battery and power electronics markets demand higher levels of:
- Reliability against moisture and contaminants.
- Electrical insulation and thermal stability.
- Extended service life of critical components.
Encapsulation is the preferred solution. With its fast handling time, durable adhesion, and UL 94 V-1 certification, DOWSIL™ EA-3838 ensures both performance and safety for electronics and batteries.
Key Benefits of DOWSIL™ EA-3838
- Fast handling time (2–6 min): improved productivity
- Skin-over in 5–18 min: start of surface curing
- Tack-free in 18–25 min: safe handling of parts
- Exceptional resistance to UV, weathering, and extreme temperatures
- Durable adhesion on plastics, metals, and glass
- Precise application thanks to non-sag paste-like consistency
- Mechanical flexibility to absorb thermal expansion stress
- UL 94 V-1 certified: flame-retardant performance for electronics and batteries
Why Partner with Samaro?
As an official DOW distributor, Samaro provides:
- Technical expertise in encapsulation and bonding for electronics.
- Application support to adapt DOWSIL™ EA-3838 to your production line.
- A comprehensive portfolio including adhesives, sealants, lubricants, and coatings.
- Reliable logistics ensuring availability and responsiveness.
❓FAQ – DOWSIL™ EA-3838 Fast Adhesive
🔹 What is DOWSIL™ EA-3838 Fast Adhesive?
A two-part silicone adhesive with fast room-temperature curing, designed for multi-substrate bonding.
🔹 What’s the difference between handling time, skin-over, and tack-free?
- Handling time = initial fixing stage (2–6 min).
- Skin-over = formation of a surface film (5–18 min).
- Tack-free = completely non-sticky surface (18–25 min).
🔹 What are its main applications?
Electronics, batteries, automotive, appliances, renewable energy, and aerospace.
🔹 Can it be used without a primer?
Yes, it provides durable adhesion on most substrates without primer.
🔹 What’s its operating temperature range?
From -50 °C to +180 °C, with excellent thermal stability.
🔹 Is it certified?
Yes, it is UL 94 V-1 certified, guaranteeing flame-retardant safety for electronics and batteries.
🔹 Where can I purchase this product?
Through Samaro, the official DOW distributor in France, with technical support included.
