Ethyl cyanoacrylate is a chemical compound, the primary ingredient in super glue or instant adhesive. This acrylate compound is a low-viscosity, colorless liquid, often with a faint, sweet scent when pure. It is a strong, fast-acting adhesive used extensively across various industries and in everyday life. Its ability to form strong bonds between diverse materials has made it a common household item.
How It Bonds
Ethyl cyanoacrylate forms a strong bond through anionic polymerization, initiated by minute amounts of moisture. This moisture, found in air or on material surfaces, acts as a catalyst, triggering a rapid chain reaction. Individual ethyl cyanoacrylate molecules, called monomers, quickly link to form long, strong polymer chains, solidifying the adhesive. This transformation from liquid monomer to solid polymer occurs quickly at room temperature, typically within seconds to minutes, generating a small amount of heat, making the reaction exothermic. The resulting rigid plastic network creates a durable connection between bonded surfaces.
Everyday Uses
Ethyl cyanoacrylate finds diverse applications due to its strong bonding capabilities. In household repairs, it mends items like ceramics, plastics, and rubber, including broken toys or shoe soles. Hobbyists use it for model building and crafting due to its quick-setting nature. The automotive industry employs these adhesives for securing small plastic or rubber components within vehicle subassemblies.
In the medical field, specialized cyanoacrylate formulations serve as tissue adhesives for wound closure, sometimes called “liquid stitches.” They are also used in dentistry to promote healing in extraction sockets or as hemostatic agents to control bleeding during oral surgeries. Medical-grade cyanoacrylates are used in manufacturing various medical devices like catheters, IV sets, and orthopedic devices.
Forensic science uses ethyl cyanoacrylate in “super glue fuming” to develop latent fingerprints on non-porous surfaces. The fumes react with moisture and residues in fingerprints, creating stable, white outlines for identification.
Important Safety Considerations
Handling ethyl cyanoacrylate requires specific precautions to prevent accidental bonding and irritation. Direct skin contact should be avoided as the adhesive bonds rapidly, often in seconds. If skin bonding occurs, do not pull the skin apart. Instead, soak the affected area in warm, soapy water and gently peel or roll the bonded surfaces apart using a blunt object. Contact with fibrous materials like cotton or wool can cause a rapid, exothermic reaction, generating heat and potentially leading to burns. Wearing appropriate polyethylene or nitrile gloves is recommended.
Eye contact is serious and can cause eyelids to bond together. Immediately rinse the eye with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes and seek prompt medical attention without attempting to force the eyelids open.
Vapors released by ethyl cyanoacrylate can irritate the eyes, skin, and respiratory system. Ensure good general or local exhaust ventilation in the work area, especially when using larger volumes. For optimal shelf life and to prevent premature polymerization, store ethyl cyanoacrylate in its original, tightly closed container in a cool, dry place, ideally between 2°C and 8°C (35°F and 45°F), protected from moisture and strong light.