Cyanoacrylate glue – What is it and what is it used for?

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Cyanoacrylate glue is a one-component chemical substance capable of quickly bonding various types of materials. What distinguishes it and what is worth knowing about it?

Chemical composition and key information about cyanoacrylate adhesives

Cyanoacrylate glue is a chemical sold under various trade names. It is an ester of cyanoacrylic acid that exhibits strong adhesive properties and virtually instantaneous bonding. In addition, adhesives of this type are distinguished by excellent adhesion to various surfaces and high tensile strength. They do not require the addition of any chemicals before use and special preparation (such as shaking to combine the ingredients).

Another property of cyanoacrylate glue is its instant drying time over a wide range of temperature and humidity. Above-average resistance to a variety of chemicals further expands the use of this product.

Joker medium cyanoacrylate glue - 20g.

The most popular use of cyanoacrylate glue

Cyanoacrylate glue is widely used in a variety of industries, from industrial to automotive to medical. In addition to professional use, these types of adhesives are used in households. They are perfect for repairing various types of items, such as plastic toys, as well as wooden, ceramic and rubber parts.

Application of cyanoacrylate glue in electronics

The next application of cyanoacrylate glue is in
electronics
. The product is ideal for fast and stable attachment of electronic components of various sizes. In addition, the use of such adhesives includes securing joints. However, it is worth remembering that the disassembly of electronic components glued with cyanoacrylate glue is sometimes problematic.

Another potential limitation of use is exposure to high temperatures. Cyanoacrylic acid ester-based adhesive should not be used to glue parts that periodically or permanently reach high temperatures during operation. Despite these limitations, the agents are well suited for electronics repair.

Unusual applications of cyanoacrylate glue

Joker thick cyanoacrylate glue - 20g.

Cyanoacrylate tissue adhesives are commonly used in ophthalmic surgery. In addition, they are used as replacements for surgical sutures. Where else are cyanoacrylate adhesives used? Among other things, in paleontology for the extraction of very delicate fossils, which can be damaged throughout the process.

By using the right amount of cyanoacrylate glue, fossils can be stabilized and safely extracted, even from hard-to-reach places. The adhesive properties, combined with a short setting time, allow the integrity of brittle fossils to be maintained.

Cyanoacrylate glue - use in modeling and arts and crafts

In modeling, on the other hand, cyanoacrylate glue is commonly used for assembling small models, distinguished by their high level of complexity and large number of miniature parts. The ability to bond quickly, durability and the possibility of using a small amount of adhesive substance ensure a stable bonding of the parts to be glued.

The next unusual use is for arts and crafts. Cyanoacrylate adhesives are used in jewelry making, especially for intricate handicrafts requiring high precision. The durability of the adhesive substance, combined with above-average weather resistance, makes this type of adhesive a frequent choice of artists.

How to remove cyanoacrylate glue?

Removing cyanoacrylate glue from various types of surfaces can be problematic. Mostly acetone is used, whose main task is to dissolve the preparation. However, it should be remembered that acetone is a potent substance capable of damaging or discoloring a variety of materials. For this reason, it is worth testing the reaction of the surface to acetone before removing the glue. The test is best performed in an invisible location. If discoloration or distortion of the material appears, then do not use acetone.

Another method involves the mechanical removal of cyanoacrylate glue, such as with a razor blade. Unfortunately, this method runs the risk of damaging the surface. For this reason, mechanical removal should be done slowly and without excessive force.

What can't be glued with cyanoacrylate glue?

Although cyanoacrylate glue is characterized by its universal application, it also has its limitations. It should not be used for gluing parts that are subjected to high mechanical stress. In addition, cyanoacrylate glue should not be used for gluing very absorbent and highly porous surfaces. This is due to the limited durability for such applications.

Safe use of cyanoacrylate glue

The use of glue (regardless of the type) requires special care and caution. Cyanoacrylate adhesives are highly reactive, so they are irritating. For this reason, personal protective equipment in the form of gloves and goggles should be used during gluing. In addition, the described adhesive is flammable, so you can never use it in close proximity to a fire. It must also not be exposed to very high temperatures.

During storage, cyanoacrylate glue should always be tightly sealed. Otherwise, it may dry out completely while losing its adhesive properties. Due to its fast and powerful action, it should be kept out of the reach of children. Also, do not inhale the fumes. Bonding should be done in well-ventilated areas or outdoors. It is also worth remembering that in most cases only a small amount of glue is needed to permanently bond the surface. Using too much sticky substance is the most common mistake of beginners.

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Mateusz Mróz

Dreamer, fan of travels and technology news. He is eager to turn his ideas for Raspberry Pi and Arduino into reality. Stubborn autodidact - he asks for help only when the internet browser doesn’t have answers he is looking for. He thinks that everyone can achieve their goals with the right attitude.

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