Super glue, known chemically as cyanoacrylate, is a fast-acting adhesive commonly used for quick household and hobby repairs. Its ability to form a strong, rapid bond makes its electrical properties a frequent question for those working on electronics or performing DIY fixes. Standard cyanoacrylate glue is not conductive, meaning it does not transmit an electrical current. Understanding this characteristic is important for anyone considering its use near wires, circuit boards, or other electrical components.
The Electrical Properties of Cyanoacrylate
Standard super glue is an electrical insulator, making it safe to use in close proximity to low-voltage electronics without causing short circuits. This quality means the cured glue actively resists the flow of electricity, acting as a barrier between conductive materials. Specialized versions of cyanoacrylate are often marketed specifically for electronics assembly to secure small components.
This insulating property prevents stray currents or unintended electrical paths from forming across components. You can use it to secure wires or hold small parts in place on a circuit board, knowing the glue will not interfere with the electrical function. However, applying the adhesive directly to contact points or wire ends will prevent a necessary electrical connection from being made.
Why Standard Super Glue is an Electrical Insulator
The insulating behavior of standard super glue stems from its fundamental material science composition. Cyanoacrylate is an acrylic resin that polymerizes, meaning its small monomer molecules link together to form long, repeating chains, creating a type of plastic. This cured polymer lacks the structures necessary for electrical conduction.
For a material to conduct electricity, it must contain free-moving charged particles, such as delocalized electrons or ions. The molecular structure of the cured cyanoacrylate polymer does not possess these free electrical carriers; instead, all electrons are tightly bound within the strong covalent bonds of the long polymer chains.
Since the glue does not contain metallic or carbon-based fillers, its resistance to electrical flow is extremely high. This high electrical resistance is the defining characteristic of an effective electrical insulator.
When You Need a Conductive Adhesive
In situations where a mechanical bond and an electrical connection are both required, standard super glue is the wrong choice due to its insulating properties. For these applications, you need a specialized product known as a conductive adhesive. These products are formulated to replace traditional soldering when heat-sensitive components are involved or when repairing fine traces on a circuit board.
Conductive adhesives transmit current by suspending conductive filler materials within a non-conductive resin, such as an epoxy or acrylic base. The most common fillers are fine micro-particles of silver, or sometimes nickel or carbon. These conductive particles are packed densely enough within the adhesive matrix to touch one another, creating a pathway for electrons to flow after the glue cures.
When searching for a conductive option, look for products explicitly labeled as “electrically conductive epoxy” or “silver conductive glue.” These specialized glues are often used to repair broken circuit traces or to attach small components where a solder joint is impractical.