A comprehensive overview of adhesive bonding, providing both basic knowledge of polymer adhesives as well as insights into their mechanical and ageing properties. The book is unique in its up-to-date, self-contained summary of recent developments and in its integration of the theory, synthesis and mechanical properties of adhesive joints as well as their applications. Well-structured throughout, the first chapter introduces the initial state of adhesive joints and their formation, while subsequent chapters discuss the ageing and failure as well as the weathering of adhesive joints. In addition the issue of long-term behavior and lifetime predictions are considered. The text is rounded off by a look at future technological advances. The result is an essential reference for a wide range of disciplines.