3M™ Spray Adhesives

If you have worked with bonded insulation, laminated countertops, mounted prints or assembly projects over the last decade, there is a high chance that you have used 3M™ spray adhesive. At iTapeStore, we stock a range of 3M™ spray adhesives that are sold by the can, with wholesale volume pricing and free shipping orders over $50. 

While the products may appear similar on the shelf, each formula has been expertly designed for different materials and applications. With this in mind, selecting the right one depends on the material being bonded and application performance requirements. 

Which 3M™ spray adhesive do you actually need?

Choosing between 3M™ adhesive products is not as straightforward as you may think. While products may appear similar on the shelf, each formula has been developed for different materials, bond strengths and applications. Let’s take a closer look:

Don't see the adhesive spray you need? We work with a wide range of adhesive systems - contact us and we'll help you find the right fit for your application.

• 3M™ Super 77™ is one of the most commonly selected adhesives due to its versatility. It is mostly used for bonding paper, cardboard, fabric, felt and lightweight foam. What sets it apart is that it develops tack quickly and provides some repositionability before the bond actually sets. This makes it a great choice for display works, mounting applications and general assembly. It also dries clear and is used where aesthetics and appearance matter. For any lightweight bonding where permanent adhesion and no clamp is expected, 77 is the go-to.
• 3M™ Hi-Strength 90™ is designed for more demanding applications. It is mostly applied to both surfaces before assembly takes place and is regularly used for laminates, wood panels and projects that require greater heat resistance than your run-of-the-mill spray adhesives. For perspective, it has much higher heat and moisture resistance than 77, with a drying time of one to two minutes. When Super 77™ is not enough, 90 is a sure thing.
• 3M™ Heavy Duty 20™ can be placed between the abovementioned options. This is selected when more holding power is required than Super 77™ can offer, but a full contact adhesive approach may not be necessary. Common 3M™ Heavy Duty 20™ applications include woodworking, laminating and general assembly. 
• 3M™ Foam Fast 74™ was developed because most spray adhesives on the market tend to eat through foam. 74's formula bonds flexible foam to fabric, wood, and metal without melting or distorting the substrate. Typical users include upholstery shops, cushion manufacturers, and foam fabricators. 
• 3M™ Rubber and Vinyl 80™ is used to bond rubber to metal, vinyl to wood, and similar materials where the migration of plasticizers through the substrate will eventually weaken a typical adhesive. Its neoprene base is also able to handle engine bay temperatures and remains attached to weather stripping, gaskets, and dashboards.

Common applications for 3M™ adhesive sprays

• Fabric and upholstery work: Super 77™ is great for lightweight fabric-to-board lamination. Foam Fast 74™  is often chosen for bonding foam or seat cushions, headliners, or soft furnishings. What sets it apart is that it will not bleed through or harden the fabric.
• Insulation and construction sites: Super 77™ is commonly used for insulation installation while Hi-Strength 90™ is selected for more demanding panel and insulation applications where bond strength is required.
• Cabinet shops and woodworking: Hi-Strength 90™ is typically used for laminating HPL and decorative surfaces to substrates while Heavy Duty 20™ is used for woodworking and assembly applications.
• Print mounting, signage, and displays: Super 77™ is regularly used for mounting prints, displays and graphic applications where clean coverage is important for presentation. No pooling, no dimpling, no yellowing.
• Automotive and industrial: Rubber and Vinyl 80™ is useful for bonding trim panels, headliners, and rubber gaskets. This is because the heat-resistant property keeps all joints sealed even under hoods and inside high-temperature enclosures (up to ~200°F).

How to use 3M™ spray adhesive

1. Clean your surfaces first. More failures happen due to dusty and greasy substrates rather than from wrong formulas. Both surfaces should be dry and free of dust before you spray.
2. Shake the can for 10 seconds, hold it 6 to 8 inches from the work, and put down a light, even coat. Heavier coats pool, slow dry time, and can dimple thin materials. Coat both surfaces for maximum adhesion.
3. Wait for tack. The adhesive should be tacky to a knuckle press yet not stick to your skin. About 15 seconds with Super 77™, and a minute or two with 90. Pressing wet adhesive together weakens the bond.
4. After every use, flip the can upside down and spray until only propellant comes out. This clears the nozzle and prevents the crusty clog that makes you throw away a half-full can.
5. Work in a well-ventilated area. These are flammable aerosols with combustible vapors. Keep away from open flames and sparks.

Frequently asked questions

Which 3M™ spray adhesive is strongest?

Hi-Strength 90™ is 3M™'s most powerful spray contact adhesive, designed for laminates, countertops, and heavy substrates. Super 77™ is perfect for paper, fabric, and lightweight substrates, but 90 has an edge when it comes to sheer bond strength.

What is the difference between 3M™ spray adhesive 90 and 77?

Super 77™ is a general-purpose adhesive with a work time of 30 minutes before it sets, which makes it suitable for lightweight finished products, scrapbooking, or photo mounting. 90 is a contact adhesive that bonds immediately and cannot be repositioned. Use 77 for lightweight crafts and light assembly. Use 90 for laminate countertops or rigid insulation boards.

What is 3M™ adhesive spray used for?

The range of 3M™ spray adhesives covers everything from photo mounting to laminating countertops and bonding rigid insulation. Each formula is designed for the materials and applications it is best suited to.

Is 3M™ Super 77™ spray adhesive permanent?

Yes, Super 77™ forms a permanent bond when both surfaces are sprayed. For a temporary repositionable hold, spray one surface only.

Shop 3M™ spray adhesives at iTapeStore

We carry 3M™ Super 77™, 3M™ Hi-Strength 90™, and 3M™ Heavy Duty 20™ spray adhesives. Each can is sold separately with discounts on multi-can purchases. Free shipping on any order over $50. Not sure what formula is best for you? Contact us at 888-233-2216 or Sales@iTapeStore.com.