2006-07-07 02:56:34 · 14 answers · asked by Jack @ 3 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Chemistry
Super Glue contains a chemical called cyanoacrylate which reacts with WATER in the air to harden. When manufactured, there is no water in the tube and so the super glue doesn't harden. As soon as the glue is exposed to the air, however, it reacts with any moisture and hardens, in the same way that epoxy resins react with their hardners to harden.
If you want super glue to harden quicker you should breathe on it, as the moisture in your breath promotes the hardening process. And it's also why super glue sticks to your hands so well, as there's a plentiful supply of water on your skin.
2006-07-07 03:46:35 · answer #1 · answered by mathsbrain 2 · 4⤊ 0⤋
Super glue, although a very good adhesive, doen not work on certain substances, like certain plastics. One can always design the tube from similar materials
2006-07-07 03:00:42 · answer #2 · answered by mkaamsel 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It is not exposed to the outside air. It is sealed in an enclosed environment. That is why you must put the lid back on after the first use.
2006-07-07 03:00:05 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Not enough air inside to harden it, unless you leave the bottle open, and therefor air can get inside, and the it wil harden
2006-07-07 02:59:28 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Because it's "Super" glue. It has super powers, and I said so.
2006-07-07 03:01:26 · answer #5 · answered by Ed <3 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It does. It doesn't stick to the unset glue in contact with it.
2006-07-07 03:00:27 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
It requires water (H2O) to polymerise. That is why is sticks skin so well as there is water present. Note that it is not an anaerobic-type adhesive (polymerises in absence of air).
2006-07-07 09:55:50 · answer #7 · answered by kanie_wb 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
the outer layer likely does. although the inner layer isn't touching the fringe of the tube... besides i imagine it needs to be uncovered to air to beccome sticky - - - Emily - - -
2016-11-01 09:04:33 · answer #8 · answered by sturms 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
AIR IS ONE OF THE MANY PROPERTIES THAT MAKES SUPER GLUE HARDEN.
2006-07-07 03:00:53 · answer #9 · answered by ? 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The way you answer this question is so cute, Puppy Zwolle ^_^ It made me smile :) And I like that facial expression of yours in your avatar ^_^
2006-07-07 06:43:00 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋