Hot melt adhesives are diverse in terms of material adaptation and options. Selecting the proper hot melt adhesive is vital. Some adhere to substances made from rubber, fabric, wood and textiles, while other hot melts are more compatible with items such as glass, ceramics, plastic, paper, and concrete.

Particular hot melt adhesives have been created to join products that are dissimilar such as rubber to metal. Also, a special hot melt adhesive created for electrical applications provides protection against electrostatic discharge, radio frequency interference, and electromagnetic interference. Threadlocking hot melts connect certain textiles that are prone to loosening as a result of vibration. Choosing the correct hot melt adhesive requires careful analysis of electrical, mechanical, thermal and optical attributes.