AbstractAnaerobic adhesives are single–component acrylic adhesives which cure at room temperature and only in the absence of air. They are widely used in the production of cheap and durable mechanical assemblies. In this paper the compositions of anaerobic adhesives are outlined, and it is shown how the products have evolved over the past thirty years. Their properties are covered, and then related to their applications which include the locking of threaded parts, the retaining of coaxially fitted parts, and the sealing of flanges and pipe connections. Specifications relating to the adhesives and their uses are described, and reference is made to techniques commonly used to apply them.MST/319