The word "anaerobic" means "without air", which means that these adhesives cure on the removal of air (oxygen). The other pre-condition for the anaerobic adhesive to cure is that they need to be in contact with a metal. Hence, anaerobic adhesives remain in liquid form until they are isolated from oxygen and come in contact with metals like iron, copper, etc. Anaerobic adhesives fill the gaps between metal components in an assembly (for example, a nut and bolt assembly). It is because of this property that they are used to augment the seal or hold components of a mechanical assembly together.
http://www.parsonadhesives.com/sonlok/anaerobic-adhesives.htm?searchstr=Anaerobic%20Adhesive
