Getting the Hang of the Gorilla: The wild jungle of adhesives can be daunting. Thankfully, you have Gorilla Glue as a reliable sidekick for your crafting escapades.
As a polyurethane-based adhesive, Gorilla Glue forms an incredibly strong bond on a variety of materials, but how does it perform on plastic?
Let’s take a deep dive into the nuts and bolts of using Gorilla Glue on plastics.
Gorilla Glue and Plastics: A Jungle Adventure
- Gorilla Glue forms a strong bond on several types of plastic.
- It expands three times into the material, ensuring a secure grip.
- It is water-resistant, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor uses.
- Despite its strength, it can sometimes struggle with certain plastic types.
Pre-Adhesive Advice: Things to Consider Before Going Bananas for Gorilla Glue
Before you leap headfirst into your crafting project, here are a few nuggets of wisdom:
- Ensure the plastic surface is clean, dry, and free of any debris.
- Lightly sand the surface for better adhesion.
- Always wear protective gloves, as Gorilla Glue is a strong adhesive.
- Test on a small, unnoticeable area first to ensure the desired results.
- The glue expands as it dries, so a little goes a long way!
The Ape-Plastic Connection: Types of Plastic Gorilla Glue Befriends
- ABS Plastic:
- Pros: Gorilla Glue works well on ABS plastic, forming a robust bond.
- Cons: Given the strong bond, mistakes can be difficult to correct.
- PVC:
- Pros: Gorilla Glue is effective on PVC, providing a strong, waterproof seal.
- Cons: The bond can sometimes be less flexible, which might not be ideal for all applications.
- Polystyrene:
- Pros: It’s useful for bonding polystyrene for non-load-bearing applications.
- Cons: The bond might not be as strong as on other plastics.
The No-Glue Zone: Plastics that Should Steer Clear of the Gorilla
Gorilla Glue isn’t suitable for all plastics, such as Polypropylene (PP) and Polyethylene (PE).
These plastics have non-stick, low-energy surfaces that make it difficult for adhesives to form a strong bond. In these instances, it’s best to use a specialized plastic adhesive.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using Gorilla Glue on Plastic
- Clean the plastic surfaces that you wish to bond.
- Lightly sand the surface to improve adhesion.
- Apply a small amount of Gorilla Glue to one surface. Remember, it expands!
- Press the surfaces together for about 10-45 seconds.
- Let the glue cure for 24 hours for maximum strength.
- Marvel at your handiwork and enjoy the secure bond!
End of the Jungle Trek: Gorilla Glue and Plastics
In conclusion, Gorilla Glue can be a valuable companion on your crafting adventures, especially when working with certain types of plastics like ABS and PVC.
However, remember to consider the type of plastic and the project’s requirements before getting started. With the right prep and patience, you can create a bond stronger than a gorilla’s grip!
