How to Glue Acrylic to Itself

Acrylic is a type of synthetic plastic resin used variously in art projects and applications where clear glass would be dangerous, such as a motorcycle windshield. Bonding two pieces of acrylic requires special adhesives that are both incredibly strong and potentially dangerous. Getting acrylic glue in the eyes can cause blindness, while breathing the fumes can cause respiratory and central nervous system problems.

Things You'll Need

• Acrylic adhesive such as Weld-On 40
• Safety goggles
• Old rags
• Coarse sandpaper
• Plunger-type syringe
• Modeling paintbrush

Instructions

1. Use a piece of sandpaper to rough up the surface of one piece of acrylic to be bonded.

2. Apply a thin line of the acrylic glue to the roughed-up acrylic surface using a syringe (without a needle) or a small paintbrush for modeling. Take care not to get the glue on any surface except the area to be bonded.

3. Align the acrylic pieces to be bonded and hold or clamp them together for 10 minutes.

4. Wait at least 40 minutes for the adhesive to set and cure. Full bonding strength is achieved in an hour.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear safety goggles and work outdoors or in a well-ventilated room with a fan operating nearby.

• Acrylic glue works like an acid to melt the pieces together, so avoid getting any of the adhesive on your skin or in your eyes. Seek emergency medical treatment if acrylic glue gets in your eyes.

References

• Working with Acrylic
• Weld-On Acrylic Bonding Products
• Bonding Acrylic