When it comes to adhesives, many people wonder what the difference is between contact cement and rubber cement. These two types of adhesives have their similarities, but also have distinct differences that separate them from each other. In this article, we will explore the similarities and differences between contact cement and rubber cement.
Contact Cement:
Contact cement is a type of adhesive that is perfect for large surfaces. It is most commonly used to attach laminates to countertops, cabinets, and other large surfaces in the construction industry. Many professionals swear by it because it bonds quickly and strongly, making it ideal for bonding surfaces that require a great deal of strength.
What sets contact cement apart is its repositioning feature. If you make a mistake, the bonded surface can be pulled apart and repositioned. However, once the adhesive dries and the surfaces are in place, it will be difficult to take them apart.
Pros:
– Excellent bonding strength
– Fast curing time
– Ideal for large surfaces
– Can be repositioned before it dries
Cons:
– Strong fumes that need to be used in a well-ventilated area
– Bonding surfaces together within seconds, so it is essential to work quickly
– Dry, brittle bond over time
Rubber Cement:
Rubber cement is a type of adhesive that is ideal for paper products such as posters and cards. It is also used for mounting photographs and other delicate documents. The adhesive itself is made from natural or synthetic rubber mixed with a solvent like heptane, hexane, or acetone.
What sets rubber cement apart is its ability to be easily removed. When the adhesive dries, it will remain sticky, allowing you to reposition the paper product up to a certain extent. However, even with its excellent repositioning capabilities, the bond will not be as strong as that provided by contact cement.
Pros:
– Ideal for paper products
– Easily removable
– Excellent for repositioning
– No fumes or odor
Cons:
– Not ideal for large surfaces
– Weak bond compared to contact cement
– Not suitable for surfaces that require a strong bond
Contact Cement vs. Rubber Cement:
The main difference between contact cement and rubber cement is their area of use. Contact cement is used for large surfaces that require a strong bond, while rubber cement is recommended for paper products that need repositioning capability.
Another significant difference between the two adhesives is the speed of the bond. Contact cement bonds surfaces together within seconds, while rubber cement takes a few seconds to a minute to dry. Another crucial factor is that rubber cement’s bond isn’t as strong as a contact cement bond.
When it comes to removing the adhesives, rubber cement is easier to remove than contact cement. Contact cement creates a dry, brittle bond over time, which is challenging to remove. Rubber cement, on the other hand, remains sticky and can be easily removed.
Which is better: Contact Cement or Rubber Cement?
Choosing between these two adhesives comes down to the project you are working on. If you are working on a project that requires a strong bond and large surfaces, contact cement is the better choice. Rubber cement is ideal for paper products that require a certain degree of repositioning capability.
FAQs:
1. Is contact cement waterproof?
Yes, contact cement is waterproof and capable of resisting water and moisture.
2. Can contact cement be removed?
Contact cement is challenging to remove, and once it has bonded the surfaces together, it is almost impossible to remove them.
3. How long does rubber cement take to dry?
Rubber cement takes a few seconds to a minute to dry.
4. Can rubber cement be used on plastic surfaces?
Rubber cement may not work well on plastic surfaces as it is not suitable for surfaces that require a strong bond.
5. Is rubber cement toxic?
Rubber cement is not toxic, but it does contain solvents that can be harmful if inhaled in large amounts. Therefore, it should be used in a well-ventilated area.
Conclusion:
Contact cement and rubber cement are two adhesives that have their advantages and disadvantages. Contact cement is ideal for large surfaces and offers a strong bond, while rubber cement is ideal for paper products and offers repositioning capability. Choosing between the two adhesives comes down to the project you are working on. Both adhesives are widely available and can be found in most hardware stores. Therefore, It is essential to choose the right adhesive for your project to ensure a successful outcome.