When it comes to adhesives, there are some that are more commonly used than others. Two that are often confused for one another are rubber cement and contact cement. While they may share some similarities, they are actually quite different in their composition and uses. In this article, we will explore the differences between rubber cement and contact cement.
What Is Rubber Cement?
Rubber cement is a type of adhesive that is made by combining natural or synthetic rubber with a solvent. The solvent helps to keep the rubber in a liquid form so that it can be easily applied to a surface. Rubber cement is known for its ability to create a strong bond between two surfaces, while still being able to be easily removed when necessary.
Rubber cement is often used in arts and crafts projects, as well as in the office for tasks such as mounting photographs or creating presentations. Its ability to be easily removed makes it a popular choice for temporary projects or for situations where a mistake may need to be corrected.
What Is Contact Cement?
Like rubber cement, contact cement is an adhesive that is designed to bond two surfaces together. However, the composition of contact cement is quite different. Contact cement is made by combining rubber and resin, which are dissolved in a solvent. The result is a thick, viscous glue that is incredibly strong and durable.
Contact cement is commonly used in woodworking, as well as in the automotive industry for tasks such as repairing car interiors. Its strength and durability make it a popular choice for projects where a long-lasting bond is required.
Differences Between Rubber Cement and Contact Cement
One of the main differences between rubber cement and contact cement is their composition. Rubber cement is made from rubber and a solvent, while contact cement is made from rubber, resin, and a solvent. This difference in composition gives contact cement its strength and durability, while rubber cement is known for its ability to be easily removed.
Another key difference between the two adhesives is their applications. Rubber cement is often used in arts and crafts projects, as well as in the office for tasks such as mounting photographs or creating presentations. Contact cement, on the other hand, is commonly used in woodworking and in the automotive industry.
Rubber cement can also be easily removed from surfaces, while contact cement is designed to create a permanent bond. This means that if you need to remove something that has been bonded with contact cement, it may be difficult or impossible to do so without damaging the surface.
Which One Should You Use?
Deciding which adhesive to use will depend on the needs of your project. If you are working on a temporary project or need an adhesive that can be easily removed, rubber cement may be the best choice. On the other hand, if you need a strong, permanent bond, contact cement may be the better option.
It’s important to follow the instructions on the adhesive carefully to ensure that you are using it correctly. This will help to ensure that you get the best results possible from your project.
In Conclusion
Rubber cement and contact cement are two common adhesives that are often confused for one another. While they do share some similarities, they are quite different in their composition and uses. Rubber cement is known for its ability to create a strong bond between two surfaces, while still being able to be easily removed. Contact cement, on the other hand, is incredibly strong and durable, making it a popular choice for projects where a long-lasting bond is required. Ultimately, the adhesive that you choose will depend on the needs of your project.