How to Glue Plexiglas

Plexiglass is a material that can be cut, molded and glued into many shapes. Frequently used to build aquariums and greenhouses, it is a versatile form of plastic. Plexiglass is available at local hardware stores but selection will be limited. An acrylic shop will have a wide variety of plexiglass sizes, thicknesses and colors. Several commercial glues are available online or at local stores to glue plexiglass. Silicone is not the best material to use to join plexiglass to other plastics, but is used to glue plexiglass to glass.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Table saw
• Masking tape
• Acrylic adhesive or glue
• Methylene Chloride
• Syringe
• Sandpaper

Instructions

Glueing Plexiglass

1. Measure out the pieces that will be needed for the project. Follow project designs if they are available. Cut the pieces on the table saw. Leave the protective covering on the Plexiglas until ready to glue. If a table saw is not available many acrylic stores will cut the plexiglas for you.

2. Set the pieces in place according to the design and tape them in place. Utilize C-clamps for large pieces when necessary. Remove protective covering.

3. Fill the syringe with the adhesive. Touch the tip of the syringe to the joint and squeeze the glue out evenly. The glue should be drawn into the joint by capillary action. Run the syringe the length of the section to be glued. Allow to dry.

4. Wait at least 30 minutes before moving. Glue the opposite side of the joint following the same method. Allow to dry for 24 hours.

5. Sand any rough edges after 24 hours. Seal the joint with methylene chloride if required for the project.

Tips & Warnings

• Acrylic adhesive will scar the Plexiglas so use caution and don't spill on the project. An alternative to using a syringe is a watercolor paintbrush.

• Don't use silicone for joining or sealing Plexiglas. It does not stick well to most Plexiglas surfaces.

References

• Kent Marine

Resources

• Rplastics