The Fascinating World of Superglue
Most of us have used superglue—a type of adhesive called cyanoacrylate—known for its incredible ability to bond almost instantly. But there’s more to this amazing invention than just fast sticking power. Let’s break down some key facts.
A Brief History
- 1942: Scientist Harry Coover Jr. and his team discovered cyanoacrylate while searching for materials to make clear plastic gun sights during WWII. Ironically, it wasn’t useful for their original purpose—it stuck to everything!
- 1958: The first commercial superglue, called Eastman #910, was sold by Eastman Kodak after Coover realized its potential.
Storage Tips
- Unopened bottles: Last up to 12 months if refrigerated (varies by product).
- Opened bottles: Last 4-8 weeks at room temperature. Keep the cap tightly sealed.
- Best storage conditions: Between 50-70°F. For extra protection, store in an airtight container with silica gel to absorb moisture.
How It Works
- Bonding time (fixture time): 5-90 seconds—enough to lightly handle the glued item (or accidentally stick your fingers together!).
- Full cure time: 8-24 hours to reach maximum strength, depending on surfaces and glue type.
- Shear strength at fixture time: Can hold up to 3kg—but its real power is in tensile strength (think car-lifting demos!).
Performance & Limits
- Heat resistance: Most types withstand up to 200°F; specialized versions handle up to 275°F.
- Tensile strength: Ranges from 3,000 to 4,000 PSI—strong enough for most everyday fixes.
Quick Fix for Stuck Fingers
If you bond skin accidentally, gently pry it apart with a pen (superglue weakens under shear pressure). Acetone (nail polish remover) also works—but use carefully and wash with soapy water afterward.
