Full definition
Force per unit area that an adhesive joint withstands when forces act parallel to the bond plane. The primary loading mode in most structural applications. Measured in MPa per ASTM D1002 (lap-shear) or D3528. Structural adhesives (epoxy, MMA) reach 15–40 MPa; contact adhesives, 2–5 MPa. Determines the minimum bond area required for a given applied load.