Polyethylene is one of the most popular and widely known materials. Not too expensive and, in general, unpretentious. Polyethylene is often used in the construction of greenhouses and greenhouses, for warming and waterproofing various objects. At the time of work, many masters are faced with the need to glue this material. This is where the problems begin. The fact is that polyethylene is difficult to join. But you can still fasten it with glue. It is also possible to do this under the influence of high temperature. How to choose a suitable adhesive for polyethylene and what you need to pay attention to when working? The answers to these and other questions can be found below.
Polyethylene Properties
This wonderful material has a lot of interesting properties. Polyethylene is used to protect against moisture, it is an excellent electrical insulator and is able to absorb one of the most dangerous types of radiation. It is almost completely resistant to chemicals. It is this last quality that sometimes turns from virtue into a disadvantage. How to fasten such material and how to choose glue for polyethylene?
Interestingly, bonding is not only a chemical, but to some extent an electrical process. The molecules of the substances to be joined are attracted to each other due to the difference in their charges. Therefore, it is quite difficult to find a substance that adheres well to polyethylene, and after drying, firmly holds together the fastened parts. Since the molecules of this material are quite "balanced", it can be very difficult to glue it with other elements. But still, the chemical industry has created glue for gluing polyethylene. And not one. Such an adhesive must have certain properties. Let's consider which ones.
Adhesive Material Requirements
If you decide to stick polyethylene or penophenol (its foamed variety) to a concrete or brick surface, then the bonding adhesive layer should have a number of properties:
- Remain resistant to atmospheric effects.
- Do not destroy bonded materials.
- Possess a high degree of hygroscopicity and adhesion.
- Be resistant to temperature changes.
- To have antiseptic and fungistatistical qualities.
- Keep your properties for a long time.
Customer reviews suggest that it is also worth paying attention to the environmental safety of the adhesive. This is especially important when using materials for interior decoration. And if you decide to use polyethylene (penofenol) when arranging a sauna or bath, you need to pay extra attention to the heat resistance of the glue and its resistance to the action of hot water vapor.
How to choose glue?
If you don’t know which adhesive for polyethylene is right for you, ask the seller to look for one containing methyl acrylate. This substance provides quick softening of polyethylene and its high-quality bonding. Also, the composition of the product may include chromic anhydride, various acids and xylene. The indisputable advantage of this glue is that when you use it, you do not need additional surface treatment. But users claim that he has a drawback. Such glue for polyethylene is very toxic. Therefore, all work is best done outdoors. Well, or you have to at least provide quality ventilation. Best glue "works" at a temperature of +35 ˚C. He is not afraid of moisture, but ignites easily.
Also in stores you can find tools for connecting polymers. They are sold as thick pasta. The kit usually comes with a solvent. After combining these two components, the glue acquires the desired structure. Since the solvent instantly evaporates, use the mixture quickly. So you should not breed a lot right away.
But neoprene glue for polyethylene is better not to use. Such a composition is more suitable for connecting rubber and rubber parts, neoprene fabric, leather, felt, ceramics, metal in any combination. But for styrofoam, foam, polyethylene and plasticized PVC it is better not to use it. There will be no sense.
Acrylate adhesive with filler
If you do not know how to glue foamed polyethylene, try using a two-component composition based on the same methyl acrylate. Alternatively, you can try the Easy-Mix PE-PP trademark of Weicon. It has excellent adhesive properties. It is used for bonding polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride and other polymeric materials. When working with this glue, you have to hurry. It retains its properties in the open air for no more than three minutes.
Easy-Mix PE-PP contains a special additive consisting of microscopic glass beads. This filler prevents the glue from leaving the bond. Therefore, the seam is strong enough. Such glue for foamed polyethylene should be applied only from the mixer of branded packaging. It is best to work with it at a temperature of +22 ° C. Full solidification is ensured no earlier than 5-6 hours.
Epoxy adhesive
Of course, this is not a very suitable adhesive for gluing polyethylene. But if nothing else could be found, then you can try. Just have to pre-prepare the surface:
- “Peel” the edges of the parts to be glued with a fine emery cloth. Then thoroughly degrease them.
- Treat both parts with a 20% solution of chromic anhydride or a 25% solution of potassium dichromate. If such substances could not be found, you can use a strong solution of potassium permanganate.
- Dry after surface treatment.
- Dissolve glue according to the instructions. Apply to the bonded surfaces with a thin layer. Immediately dock the details.
- To withstand a few hours, and preferably a day - until the seam solidifies.
User reviews indicate that phenol-formaldehyde resin has excellent adhesion to polyethylene. So if you carefully follow the instructions, you will succeed.
Glue polyethylene: instruction
As you can see, in order to glue polyethylene, you do not need any special knowledge. The order of work is familiar here:
- to clean;
- degrease;
- to dry;
- spread with adhesive;
- fasten parts;
- to press down;
- leave to dry completely.
At the same time, as with any other toxic substances, it is worth taking care of the presence of goggles, gloves and a respirator.