Abstract: A device and method are provided for testing the effectiveness of an adhesive composition to adhere a sheet of material to a substrate. A connector is attached to the sheet and the adhesive is used to adhere the sheet to the substrate and permitted to cure to a selected amount. After (or even before, if desired) the adhesive cures, a load is applied to the connector, having the effect of pulling the sheet away from the substrate. The duration of the pulling and the amount of the load can be varied. If too large a dome is formed under the location of the connector, the adhesive does not pass the test. Optionally, the adhesive formulation is adjusted to make it stronger to resist such doming.

Abstract: An adhesive is provided that will automatically signal that it has cured a sufficient amount for objects, such as flooring, to be installed on the adhesive. The cure-signaling adhesive can be a one component high strength adhesive composition which can signal that it has cured a sufficient amount and developed sufficient viscosity and tackiness (pressure sensitivity) for flooring or other objects to be installed on the adhesive. The adhesive can be formulated to change pH during curing and to signal sufficient curing by including a color change pH indicator in the adhesive. The adhesive can be formulated to have low or substantially no VOC emissions and can be formulated with bio-sourced ingredients.

Abstract: An underlayment layer composition and flooring system, method of using the composition and method of obtaining desirable sound reducing results are provided. The underlayer can provide sound reducing properties. The underlayer material is preferably provided as a liquid or paste. It can take the form of a trowel applied, rapid curing material suitable for many floor systems. In preferred embodiments of the invention, a layer membrane of the material can help lead to an ASTM E492/ASTM E-986-06 impact sound transmission IIC rating or ASTM E90-04/E413-10 sound transmission loss STC rating of about 45 dB or greater, preferably over 65 dB and even over 69 dB.

Abstract: A method of installing flooring with an adhesive system that comprises a layer of adhesive without any adhesive carrier layer or screen or the like, covered on a first release surface and covered on the opposite side by a second release surface.