All physically setting adhesives are characterized by their long molecular chains, the polymer structure. The polymer form is already present before gluing and is therefore the typical feature of physically setting adhesives.

Only polymers that can either be liquefied or melted are suitable for physically setting adhesives. (thermoplastics)

The long molecular chains are dissolved in solvents, dispersed in water or melted.

Physically setting adhesives achieve their strength through the escape of the solvents or dispersants or through cooling after previous heating.

This is referred to as the binding process.

Distinction:

• The following are some of the adhesives in which the liquid component has to escape during setting:
  - Dispersion adhesives
  - solvent-based wet adhesives
  - Contact adhesives.
• Cooling adhesives include hot melt adhesives.