The adhesive has to spread over the adherend surface, penetrating its irregularities, displacing air and any contaminants present. The ideal conditions for this to be realised are that:
(1) the surface free energy of the adherend should be higher than that of the liquid adhesive
(2) the liquid adhesive should exhibit a zero or near zero contact angle
(3) the adhesive’s viscosity should be relatively low at some time during the bonding operation
(4) the joint should be closed at a rate and in a manner that assists air displacement
(5) there should be an extended time before setting
(6) an external driving pressure should be applied. (It is sometimes suggested, for example in concrete repair work, that the ‘adhesive’ be scrubbed into the surface.)