Adhesives in Everyday Life
Adhesives have a wide range of applications in modern life, and each of us may need them at some point over time. Various types of adhesives are used for different purposes and may be required in homes, workplaces, or schools. In this article, we will explore “Common Types of Adhesives for Household Use.”
Among the types of adhesives available in the market, super glue (123 glue) and all-purpose glue are the most commonly used. Other noteworthy adhesives include aquarium glue and drop glue.
A variety of high-quality adhesives for home use are available in the market. To determine which adhesive is suitable for your needs, follow this guide from “Ana Chemistry Araz” as we discuss these options. Additionally, for purchasing various industrial adhesives, visit the adhesive section of “Ana Chemistry Araz.”
Common Household Adhesives
1. Super Glue (123 Glue)
As the name suggests, this glue dries quickly and easily bonds two surfaces. Its function is quite similar to that of drop glues. This glue comes in two parts: the adhesive and a drying spray. The correct method of use is to first coat the surface with the glue, then spray the drying agent on top, and immediately press the two pieces together.
Keep in mind that this glue has many applications and is essential for various tasks at home. Almost every household has a tube of 123 glue, which is a very strong adhesive for bonding metals, plastics, MDF, ceramics, tiles, stones, and wood.
Tape
Perhaps the most common use for tape at home is wrapping gifts and covering books. This type of tape (whether plastic or paper) is available in long, thin strips of varying thicknesses, lengths, and widths. Some tapes are resistant to water, sunlight, and heat. Additionally, tape often comes in double-sided varieties, which can adhere to two different surfaces.
You can use tape for various materials by cutting it to your desired length, making it suitable for packaging, crafting, and various industries. Tape is also handy for temporary connections, allowing for quick separation if necessary.
Glue Stick
A glue stick is a type of paste adhesive contained in a cylindrical tube. It works like a lip balm; by twisting the bottom of the tube, adhesive comes out to be used for bonding paper or cardboard.
This glue’s strength is not very high, and it is primarily used by students for bonding paper and cardboard. It should not be left exposed to air, as it dries quickly. Always make sure to close the cap securely after each use.
4. Electrical Tape
Electrical tape is considered another household adhesive. Although it is designed for specialized tasks, its availability and ease of use make it part of household adhesives. Electrical tape is used for connecting wires and preventing electric shocks.
These tapes come in various types and colors, each used to indicate a specific voltage level. Usually, larger rolls are used to insulate thicker wires. This tape is also widely used in construction.
5. Drop Glue
Drop glue is a type of instant and very strong adhesive that creates a thin layer on surfaces and leaves minimal residue once the parts are bonded. It is useful for construction, repairs, paper bonding, and other activities.
A significant advantage of drop glue is that, unlike some two-part adhesives like epoxy and 123 glue, it does not require an additional substance for bonding surfaces and is independent of a hardening agent. The drying of drop glue occurs quickly, often in less than 15 seconds, aided by drops of water on the surfaces.
Drop glues, available in 2-gram and 3-gram tubes, are effectively used in various household, decorative, and crafting applications, as well as in nail design and similar activities. This glue is capable of connecting rubber, plastic, silicone, and other components efficiently.
6. All-Purpose Glue
All-purpose glue is a familiar name that many of us have encountered. It is a polymer dissolved in acetone or thinner, separating from the polymer upon mixing with a solvent, ultimately forming a hard material. However, there are limitations to its use. For example, this glue cannot be used on foam parts, as its petroleum-based solvents will damage the foam.
Due to its special structure, this glue has many applications, including bonding materials of various kinds, such as plastic, rubber, paper, leather, fabric, glass, ceramics, sponge, foam, and wood. It is also easy and quick to use, requiring no special equipment.
7. Silicone Glue (Aquarium Glue)
Aquarium glue is a type of silicone adhesive used at home. This glue is produced from a combination of polymer materials with silicon and oxygen. Silicone glues are categorized based on their bonding strength and surface tension and come in standardized colors. According to this color coding, clear silicone glue has lower resistance, while white and black packaging indicates medium bonding strength. Red packaging signifies very high bonding strength.
Aquarium glues are antibacterial, preventing any bacterial or fungal growth on the surfaces coated with this adhesive. They are highly resistant to water and moisture, making them suitable for preventing water infiltration in the joints and cracks of bathrooms and kitchens.
Ultimately, choosing the right household adhesive can depend on various factors, including the type of materials to be bonded, the environmental conditions of use, the required drying time, and the desired strength of the bond. If you need the right adhesive for your project, the information provided should significantly assist you in achieving your goal.