Permabond 102 Cyanoacrylate Adhesive

Permabond 102 is an ethyl cyanoacrylate adhesive renowned for its extremely fast fixture time and low viscosity. This colourless, single-component "super glue" polymerises rapidly through surface moisture, creating strong bonds on a wide variety of materials in mere seconds. Its low viscosity (70-90 cP) allows it to wick effectively into tight gaps (up to 0.15 mm or 0.006 in), making it perfect for precise bonding of close-fitting components. Australian manufacturers, repair technicians, model makers, and prototyping specialists rely on Permabond 102 for applications demanding speed and accuracy, especially when bonding plastics, rubbers (like Buna N), and metals.

Primer Information: For optimal bonding on difficult low-surface-energy plastics such as polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), PTFE, or silicone rubber, pre-treatment of the surface with Permabond POP Polyolefin Primer is essential before applying Permabond 102.

Activator Information: On porous surfaces, or in very low humidity conditions sometimes found in drier Australian regions, cure speed may slow. To ensure rapid fixturing in these situations, consider using Permabond CSA or QFS 16 activators.

Cure Time: Permabond 102 achieves handling strength (fixture time) incredibly quickly: 5-10 seconds on Buna N Rubber, 7-10 seconds on ABS and PVC, and 10-15 seconds on Steel and Phenolic surfaces under typical conditions (23°C, 50% RH). This rapid cure dramatically speeds up assembly processes. Full mechanical strength develops within 24 hours.

Coverage Rate: As a cyanoacrylate, Permabond 102 is applied sparingly – typically one small drop per few square centimetres of bond area is sufficient. Coverage depends heavily on the application method and substrate smoothness, but a little goes a long way.

Application Temperature Range: While the adhesive itself cures at ambient temperatures, the cured bond performs reliably in service temperatures ranging from -55°C to 80°C (-65°F to 176°F). It can withstand brief exposures to higher temperatures (e.g., paint baking cycles) if the joint isn't highly stressed, making it versatile for various manufacturing processes.

Chemical Properties: Permabond 102 is an ethyl cyanoacrylate. It offers good resistance to non-polar solvents but is not recommended for prolonged exposure to strong oxidising materials or polar solvents. It will generally withstand a quick solvent wash without bond degradation, useful for cleaning processes post-assembly.

Key Features of Permabond 102

• Extremely Fast Fixture Time (5-15 seconds): Minimises assembly time and clamping needs, boosting throughput on production lines or speeding up repairs. Example: Bonding plastic housing components together in seconds.
• Low Viscosity (70-90 cP): Flows easily into tight gaps (up to 0.15mm) ensuring good surface contact for strong bonds on close-tolerance parts. Example: Securing small rubber O-rings or gaskets.
• Versatile Material Bonding: Creates strong bonds on most common plastics (ABS, PVC, Phenolic), rubbers (Buna N), and metals (Steel, Aluminium, Zinc). Example: Joining a metal bracket to a plastic casing.
• Single Component, No Mixing: Ready to use straight from the bottle, eliminating mixing errors and reducing preparation time.
• 100% Reactive, No Solvents: Environmentally conscious formulation with minimal odour during application.
• High Shear Strength on Plastics: Often causes substrate failure on ABS, PVC, and Polycarbonate, indicating a very strong adhesive bond.

Why Choose Permabond 102:

• Boost Productivity: Slash assembly times from minutes to seconds per part with rapid handling strength. Example: Significantly increasing units per hour on an assembly line.
• Achieve Precise Bonds: Its low viscosity is perfect for intricate components and applications requiring neat, clean bond lines. Example: Model making or detailed electronics assembly.
• Simplify Your Process: Easy-to-use single-component adhesive requires no complex mixing or heat curing equipment. Example: Streamlining repair procedures in a workshop.
• Bond Dissimilar Materials: Effectively join combinations like rubber-to-plastic or metal-to-plastic for complex assemblies. Example: Attaching rubber feet to a metal base.

When to Choose Permabond 102 versus Alternatives:

• Choose Permabond 102 over Epoxies/Polyurethanes when: Speed is paramount. You need handling strength in seconds, not minutes or hours, for high-volume assembly or quick fixes on tight-fitting parts.
• Choose Permabond 102 over Solvent Cements when: You need to bond dissimilar materials (e.g., metal to plastic) or require a solvent-free solution.
• Consider other options (e.g., higher viscosity CAs, structural acrylics, epoxies) when: You need significant gap filling (>0.15mm), require high impact or peel strength, need flexibility in the bond line, or require resistance to polar solvents or continuous high temperatures (>80°C).

Trade-Specific Applications for Permabond 102:

Application Information

• Required Tools: Adhesive dispenser bottle (usually integrated), potentially precision applicator tips, safety glasses, nitrile gloves. Surface cleaning supplies (e.g., Isopropanol like Diggers IPA, Acetone). Emery cloth for abrading metals.
• Trade-Specific Tips:
  • Manufacturing: Use automated dispensing for consistency. Monitor humidity levels as high humidity accelerates cure. Ensure proper refrigerated storage rotation (FIFO).
  • Repair: Cleanliness is crucial. Less is more – excess adhesive doesn't improve strength and can be messy.
  • Model Making: Use a 'kicker' or activator (CSA/QFS 16) sparingly if faster setting is needed, but be aware it can sometimes slightly reduce ultimate bond strength or cause hazing on clear plastics.
• Common Issues and Solutions (Australian Conditions):
  • Curing Too Fast (High Humidity - e.g., Summer in QLD/NT): Align parts immediately after application. Work in smaller sections. Ensure adhesive isn't too warm.
  • Curing Too Slow (Low Humidity - e.g., Arid zones, winter): Use Permabond CSA or QFS 16 activator on one surface. Ensure parts are clean and adhesive is fresh.
  • White Haze ('Blooming'): Caused by rapid cure, especially with activators or excess adhesive. Ensure good airflow/ventilation during cure. Use minimal adhesive.
  • Poor Bond Strength: Check surface cleanliness/preparation. Verify material type (use POP primer for PP/PE/PTFE/Silicone). Ensure parts are mated within the adhesive's open time and gap is minimal (<0.15mm). Check adhesive age/storage conditions.

Storage and Shelf Life

• Storage Requirements: Store unopened containers in a refrigerator at 2°C to 7°C (35°F to 45°F). This is critical for maintaining shelf life, especially in warmer Australian climates.
• Shelf Life Information: Shelf life data wasn't provided in the excerpt, but typically cyanoacrylates maintain properties best for 6-12 months under ideal refrigerated conditions. Check packaging for expiry date.
• Temperature Considerations: Before use, allow the adhesive container to reach room temperature *before opening* the bottle. This prevents moisture condensation inside the bottle, which can compromise adhesive performance and shelf life. Avoid prolonged exposure to high temperatures.

Certifications and Compliance

• MIL-A-46050C Type II Class 2: Approved under this US Military Specification for cyanoacrylate adhesives (applicable to existing designs using this specification). This indicates a level of quality control and performance testing relevant to defence and aerospace applications.