How Does Glue Work?

No Certain Answer

There is no certain answer to how glue works. Whether discussing the question of natural or synthetic adhesives, scientific analysis of exactly why glue works is still theoretical.

Adhesion and Cohesion

The two properties of glue that make it functional are known as adhesion and cohesion. Adhesion refers to the ability of glue to bind with the objects it is meant to fasten together, while cohesion refers to the ability of glue to bind to itself.

Mechanical Binding

The theory of mechanical binding of gluing agents is the most widely accepted as a partial explanation of how glue works. Mechanical binding refers to the process of liquid glue seeping into cracks and pores in an object's surface and then hardening, creating a locking bond.

Van der Waal's Force

Van der Waal's force, named for the Dutch scientist who discovered it, is a theory of attraction and repulsion between molecules. The sticky climbing ability of geckos has been attributed to this force, as has the binding process of glue.

Resources

• Van der Wall's Force