How Does Super Glue Bond So Strongly?

Super Glue, sometimes also known as Krazy Glue, is a powerful adhesive that instantly binds many materials, including wood, metal, ceramic and even living tissue. The key ingredient in these fast-acting glues is cyanoacrylate, a chemical compound that is often used to bind nuts and bolts, and assemble electronics or craft projects. Cyanoacrylate is resistant to water and sets very quickly, usually in about a minute or less. The bond formed by this adhesive is water-proof once it sets for a few hours, and often lasts for a very long period of time.

Super Glue bonds very strongly due to the chemical component of cyanoacrylate. By nature, cyanoacrylate is an acrylic resin that reacts quickly when exposed to hydroxide ions, or any type of moisture such as water vapor in the atmosphere. When it comes in touch with water, cyanoacrylate polymerises rapidly and forms strong, powerful chains that bind many different kinds of non-porous surfaces to each other. These chains form quickly, which accounts for the rapid setting time and strong bond of Super Glue.

Due to its strong-binding nature, Super Glue can also pose many hazards to users. Many users accidentally glue body parts such as fingers to each other, and removing the bond can be extremely painful and dangerous. When brought into contact with cotton or wool, cyanoacrylate reacts very strongly, producing heat that can cause minor burns. Furthermore, the fumes from the glue are highly irritating to the eyes, nose and mouth. Loosening the bond can be done with acetone, a common ingredient in nail polish removers.