The Cyanoacrylate adhesives are one-part, solvent-free adhesives that cure almost instantly at room temperature. The curing process is triggered by trace amounts of water on the surface of bonded materials, leading to rapid polymerization and the formation of a strong, thermoplastic bond.
Available in multiple grades—ethyl, methyl, butyl, and octyl cyanoacrylates—these adhesives differ in bonding speed, flexibility, and biocompatibility. For example, butyl and octyl cyanoacrylates are often used in medical applications because of their reduced cytotoxicity and enhanced flexibility, whereas ethyl cyanoacrylate is popular in general-purpose applications.
Key properties include:
Fast curing: Bonding occurs in seconds.
High strength: Provides durable adhesion across substrates.
Versatility: Suitable for plastics, metals, ceramics, and elastomers.
Minimal surface preparation: Requires only clean, dry surfaces.
Technological advancements are improving heat resistance, impact strength, and moisture tolerance, expanding the scope of cyanoacrylate adhesives into more demanding industrial environments.