Choosing the Best Adhesive for Fixing Broken Plastic Glasses: Super Glue vs Cold Bonding

When it comes to temporarily fixing broken plastic glasses, both super glue and cold bonding adhesives can be effective, but they have different properties and suitability. Here are some key considerations to help you decide which is the best option for your needs.

Super Glue (Cyanoacrylate)

Pros:

Fast-drying: Bonds quickly, usually within seconds. Strong bond: Creates a strong hold for many types of plastics. Easy to use: Just apply a small amount and hold the pieces together until set.

Cons:

Brittle: The bond can become brittle over time, especially under stress. Limited flexibility: Not ideal for areas that need to flex or move. Can be messy: If excess glue is applied, it can be difficult to clean up.

Cold Bonding Adhesives (A-B Mixing)

Pros:

Flexible bond: Often allows for some movement, making it better for items that experience stress. Stronger for certain plastics: Can create a more durable bond for specific plastic types. Can fill gaps: Some cold bonding adhesives can fill gaps between broken pieces.

Cons:

Longer curing time: Takes longer to set compared to super glue. More complex application: May require mixing or specific application techniques.

Recommendation

For a quick and easy temporary fix, super glue is often the go-to option due to its speed and ease of use. However, if the glasses will be subjected to stress or movement, consider using a cold bonding adhesive for a more durable and flexible repair.

DIY Solutions and Specific Adhesives

I work in an adhesive company, and we don't use the term 'cold bonding.' Instead, we refer to these adhesives as 'A-B mixing' or two-component adhesives. In DIY settings, these adhesives can offer solutions for more specific needs.

Another popular DIY solution is Bondic UV curing adhesive. This is often considered the most ideal option because it is better than super glue in several ways. Super glue can be difficult to handle and often leaves ugly white traces, especially with more significant gaps. UV curing adhesive cures much more quickly and leaves no visible traces, making it a cleaner and more reliable choice for small areas.

Considerations for Adhesive Selection

There is no “best adhesive,” only the adhesive that is more suitable for a particular case. Adhesive selection needs to be done based on the adherents materials, the geometry of the bonding area, and the reliability for certain conditions. Different materials and conditions can affect the effectiveness and durability of the adhesive.

When choosing an adhesive, consider the specific requirements of your repair. Both super glue and cold bonding adhesives have their strengths and weaknesses, and the choice should be based on the needs of the repair and the conditions the glasses will encounter.