Model Master Liquid Cement for Plastics
Plastic is one of the hardest materials to glue together because of its low surface energy, low porosity, and non-polar surface. By using the best glue for plastic, you have the best chance at putting plastic together. Plastics include Teflon, Nylon, PET(polyethylene terephthalate), PVC (polyvinyl chloride), polypropylene, polystyrene, and others. Because there is not really a functional spot for the glue to adhere to, plastic is extremely tough to glue together. In short and simple terms, it is slippery and there is nothing for the glue to grab onto to keep it from sliding apart later.
The first thing that comes to mind for people who don’t know the industry is that super glue is probably the best glue for plastic. This assumption rests on the fact that many people believe super glue is the best glue for all materials including plastic. With plastic, you need special glue designed specifically for plastic. Sure super glue will work, but you risk the likely chance that it will snap off or fall apart soon after application. Additionally, in order to maximize the bond between two pieces of plastic, it is good to pick a good work environment.
It is ideal to work in temperatures between 70 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit with low humidity to ensure minimum drying time and a good bond. There are two main kinds of glues used to bond plastic: reactive and non-reactive glues. Reactive glues contain two or more components that need to be mixed together beforehand. These materials chemically react and harden when mixed. They are also quite hard to use and apply. Non-reactive glues are known as solvent cement do not require any kind of chemical reaction for adhesion. They are put in tubes and are much easier to apply.
Best Glue for Plastic Reviews
- Model Mast Liquid Cement for Plastics (Top Pick)
- J-B Weld MinuteWeld Instant-Setting Epoxy Syringe
- Loctite Super Glue Plastics Bonding System with Activator
Model Master Liquid Cement for Plastics
Model Master Liquid Cement for Plastics is the best glue for plastic if you are looking for a non-reactive liquid adhesive that bonds plastic with great strength. A non-reactive adhesive means that the substrate and solvent are already pre-mixed. This is making the application process so much easier. For two reactive substrates, you must first mix the substrate and solvent and quickly apply them before it all dries.
Model Master is one of the most popular brands on the market for plastic cement and is reflected in its superior durability, stronghold, and ease of application. This glue dries very quickly and allows for precision application through the small hole on top of the tube. Because is not liquid-based, it dries out quickly and is less messy than a gel-based adhesive. There are no glue cobs or strings when using this liquid. Also, the liquid can penetrate into hard-to-reach places and ensure there is zero dead space between your two pieces of plastic. Compared to the closest competitor Testors, we think Model Master has the better product. It holds better and is just less messy to apply than Testors’ liquid glue for plastics.
J-B Weld MinuteWeld Instant-Setting Epoxy Syringe
J-B Weld makes the best glue for plastics if you are looking for a 2 part epoxy that creates a strong permanent bond. This bond is tested to be able to withstand 2850 PSI of pressure. It dries clear, sets in about one minute, and cures in about one hour. This epoxy is not just limited to plastics: you can also use it on ceramic, fiberglass, carpet, composite, glass, stone, wood, and metal. The application of this epoxy is simple. First, you need to clean the surface of the area you are applying. Then remove the replaceable cap and squeeze equal amounts of both solutions on the surface.
Then mix thoroughly with a tool. Do not attempt to mix with your hands! After mixing, using a tool such as a small brush or even a toothpick, apply an even coat of this epoxy to your plastic. Finally, let it dry which takes about a minute, and then cure which is only a one-hour process. All in all, we find this epoxy to form an incredibly strong bond between all the different types of plastics we have tried. The only thing we would ask to be included in the kit is a tool to apply and mix the epoxy. You need to find one on your own. We found that a toothpick works pretty well to mix and even apply to small plastics. Another thing we must warn you about is that you only have a short time from when you mix the two solutions to apply. Since it dries super fast, you need to work fast when mixing and spreading over your material.
Loctite Super Glue Plastics Bonding System with Activator
If you want the best glue for plastic that is reactive gel-based super glue, the Loctite plastics bonding system is your perfect product. A Loctite plastics bonding system is a 2 part system that starts with applying an activator over the surface to prime it. This works on all plastics including polyethylene and polypropylene as well as plexiglass, polycarbonate, PVC, and polystyrene. After waiting one minute after applying the activator, which primes the surface for permanent bonding, apply a few drops of the super glue on one surface and hold it together for 30 seconds.
This super glue dries clear and sets without clamping too much. Additionally, it is resistant to water, chemicals, and harsh temperatures. To be honest, we find Loctite’s super glue to be inferior to Model Master’s Liquid Cement and J-B Weld’s Epoxy. It seems to be hit or miss on many different kinds of plastic. However, when it does work, it works wonderfully and creates an incredibly strong bond. Other times, it just falls apart soon after application. We recommend buying this product and keeping it as a spare/backup in case Model Masters Liquid Cement or J-B Weld’s Epoxy falls to work.
