Hot melt EVAs are made from a combination of solid thermoplastic copolymers, tackifying resins, and waxes that function with the right viscosity when applied in the bookbinding operations. EVA adhesives demonstrate strong adhesive properties, but most importantly they set quickly by virtue of their hot melt character.
A starting formulation for a general purpose EVA hot melt stick formulation is given in the table above. EVA resins are considered to be relatively safe to use in food applications. Certain adhesive manufacturers offer EVA resins that are approved for indirect food contact (FDA 21 CFR.175) applications. This allows the adhesive to be used not only in food packaging but also in food cooking and other food preparation applications.
