Anaerobic adhesives are specifically designed for use on metal surfaces. They are also known as screw locking agents or thread locking agents and are designed to create a strong, durable and vibration-proof connection. They harden when they come into contact with metal in the absence of air (anaerobic). This happens when they are applied between closely fitting metal parts, such as screws or nuts. The adhesive then fills the gap between the pieces and cures to create a strong bond. The cured bond is generally not removable unless heat and/or high pressure is applied.

Anaerobic adhesives are highly resistant to vibration and shear forces, making them ideal for the automotive and engineering industries. They are also resistant to chemical influences such as oils and solvents.