Super Glue and epoxy are two well-known products. So super glue vs. epoxy – which adhesive is the best and when to use each? Certainly, the projects for your home or workplace may require a different type of adhesive. We cover the basics to give you guidance – keep reading.
These strong glues are often used in DIY ventures. They have a superior bond and a variety of functions. So, when it comes to Super Glue vs. Epoxy, what’s the difference? What’s the suitable glue for which project? Let’s dig a little deeper into these two adhesives.
What is Epoxy?
Polyepoxide is known as epoxy glue in the industry. It is one of the most flexible and durable adhesives available today. As a result, the scope of its application has broadened to include a variety of concerns and sectors. You will use it to bring together a variety of elements, from DIY to commercial pieces.
Epoxy glue is made by mixing epoxy resin. It is made with a hardener during the manufacturing process. These two ingredients are stored in separate containers and then combined with a double syringe in equal portions. After the pot life, the resulting two-part adhesive is collected. It can range from minutes to two hours.
Advantages of Epoxy
- Strong
Epoxy glue is regarded as one of the strongest adhesives available on the market. The amount of hardener and epoxy resin determines the degree of strength.
The glue would be better if you use more hardeners. And if this will lengthen the drying process, the resulting adhesive will last for longer. You should raise the proportion of hardeners in the blend if you are not in a rush and want to reach higher strength standards.
- Waterproof
One of the most valuable properties of epoxy glue is its water resistance. You won’t have to think about the fused item being damp or immersed in water because of its waterproofing properties.
This glue retains its hardness even when submerged in water making it ideal for repairs and manufacturing.
Disadvantages of Epoxy glue
- Safety Issues
Solid epoxy resins are generally stable and non-hazardous. But liquid epoxy resins can be extremely dangerous. It has the potential to irritate your eyes and ears. Furthermore, it is incredibly poisonous to marine species. Since the epoxy liquid usually is flammable, the glue can be mildly flammable.
What is Super Glue?
Soon after its introduction, super glue became the most widely used by the general public around the world.
This substance is a cyanoacrylate compound. It uses exothermic reactions to bond two surfaces. It interacts with the medium or surface you used to apply the glue. Then it emits heat to adhere the two parts together.
This watery or gelatinous glue is easily accessible in tubes. This cyanoacrylate, like all cyanoacrylates, reacts quickly. It forms a strong bond between the two surfaces involved. Super Glue is widely used in the medical, automotive, and household sectors. It is due to its fast effects.
Advantages of Super Glue
- Instant Bond
Super Glue and other cyanoacrylates function quickly. It would benefit those who fix or make products for a living. In a moment, the glue creates a bond between the two surfaces. Using Super Glue instead of other adhesive decreases the amount of time to complete it.
- Ideal for Non-porous Materials
This glue is suitable for use on virtually any non-porous surface. It is most effective on metal, glass, plastic, stone, wood, and paper. And other related common materials. If you constantly deal with those surfaces.
Disadvantages of Super Glue
- Material Limitation
Fabrics and fibrous materials, e.g., cotton, wool, and leather, are not compatible with Super Glue. When the two are combined, they can trigger a strong and fast exothermic reaction. It can result in severe burns or the release of toxic white smoke that irritates the eyes.
What is the Difference between Super Glue and Epoxy?
Epoxy is a two-part compound that the consumer would mix: a resin and a hardener. The recipient only has a set amount of time to use the glue until it hardens. The packaging formulation determines it. Super Glue is a one-component cyanoacrylate adhesive that hardens quickly. It is exposed to moisture in the air.
Properties
Both of them form a close bond. Super Glue has a low shear strength. It means that the bonded sections can withstand direct pulling. But not off-angle tension. Epoxy is solid structurally. Epoxy is more effective at closing gaps between components. Super Glue with additives to cover small voids is used in certain types.
Uses
Epoxy is used as an additive, a covering for metal and composites. Also, as electrical reinforcement, model making, and other manufacturing uses. On a much smaller scale, Super Glue is used in a variety of uses. It ranges from surgery to minor component assembling, and it’s also used as a wood finish.
Clean Up
You can easily clean epoxy with acetone or white vinegar until it hardens. Suppose it is not impossible to extract after it has set without causing damage to the surface. You can also use acetone nail polish remover or gamma-butyrolactone. Since GBL is less poisonous, it could be preferable.
Health Warnings
You can use both materials in well-ventilated environments. When dealing with these substances, use latex gloves and eye masks for additional protection. Any epoxy user can experience an allergic reaction to the hardener. Super Glue is an irritant to the eyes, nose, and mouth that bonds to tissue instantly. It will also combust when it comes into contact with cotton or wool.
Super Glue vs. Epoxy – Which Adhesive is the Best
Both have a strong bond and are helpful for particular purposes. The scope of your project should determine the kind you choose. Super Glue has a lower shear strength but is more user-friendly. Epoxy is more structurally sound.
Between epoxy and super glue, the best option will be based on your project and design. While you can use epoxy and Super Glue on certain materials, Epoxy seems to be the best garment option. Super Glue can combust when it comes into contact with them.
Super Glue is easier to clean up and use in tight areas. So, to make the best decision. Figure out which of these factors would make the most difference for your company or hobby.
Super Glue vs. Epoxy – Which Adhesive is the Best: Our Picks
Gorilla Super Glue Gel XL – Best Super Glue Option
Gorilla is a strong brand name (no pun intended) in the world of glue and adhesives and their Super Glue Gel is an excellent choice for many reasons:
- Easy to use and control with their “no run” gel formula – great for use on vertical surfaces.
- Dries in 10-45 seconds. Fast set-up with No clamping required.
- Helps keep the glue from drying or the tip from sealing shut.
- Versatile as it can be used on plastic, wood, metal, ceramic, rubber, leather, paper, and more – but not recommended for use on polypropylene plastic or similar material.
Loctite Epoxy Five Minute Instant Mix – Best Epoxy Adhesive
If epoxy is the more appropriate adhesive then Loctite Epoxy Five Minute Instant Mix is a great choice. With more than 9,200 reviews and a 4.4 (out of 5) rating on Amazon, many others would also agree. Among the features and benefits for you the user include:
- Easy-to-use self-mixing dispenser and precision applicator.
- The high-strength formula is recommended for bonding metal, glass, ceramic, wood, many rigid plastics, china, tile, fiberglass, concrete, and stone.
- Waterproof, sandable, and paintable.
- It can be tinted with earth pigments, cement, or sanded & painted for color matching.
Super Glue vs. Epoxy – Which Adhesive is the Best FAQs
Q: How Strong Is Epoxy Adhesive?
Epoxy is the strongest of all the reactive adhesives on the market. High temperatures, UV light, solvents, and effect are all resistant to this material. Epoxy usually has a tensile strength of around 300 pounds.
Q: How Long Does Epoxy Glue Last?
This is dependent on the substance and the circumstances. If epoxy glue is applied correctly to a board, it can last indefinitely. This substance forms a powerful bond.
Q: What are the Mixing Difficulties in using Epoxy?
Those who have never done something like this before, mix the two ingredients in the right amounts. To prepare the final epoxy adhesive before adding it may be a little tricky. You may wish to enlist the assistance of a specialist. Or enlist an experienced person to assist you with the planning. To ensure proper performance while mixing.
Q: What is the Material limitation of Super Glue?
Fibrous materials such as cotton, wool, and leather are not compatible with Super Glue. When the two are combined, they can trigger a strong and fast exothermic reaction. It can result in severe burns or the release of toxic white smoke that irritates the eyes.
Super Glue vs. Epoxy – Which Adhesive is the Best: Wrapping Up
The argument over super glue vs epoxy can be based on the project you would use the adhesive on. Both options are outstanding in their respective fields. There is no better or worse alternative when contrasting epoxy and super glue. All are strong adhesives, but they have different strengths.