Contact Cement vs Rubber Cement: What is the Difference?
When it comes to DIY home renovation or art projects, cement is a commonly used material with a wide range of applications.
Two popular types of cement that you may come across are contact cement and rubber cement.
While they may seem similar, there are key differences between the two that make them more suitable for specific purposes.
In this article, we will delve into the distinctions between contact cement and rubber cement to help you make an informed decision for your next project.
Table: Contact Cement vs Rubber Cement
| Criteria | Contact Cement | Rubber Cement |
|---|---|---|
| Materials | Natural rubber and neoprene | Elastic polymer and solvent |
| Applications | Wood, tiles, metal, leather, plastic | Cardboard, paper |
| Drying Time | Slower | Quicker |
| Removal | Difficult | Easy |
| Repositioning | Difficult | Easy |
Now let’s dig deeper into the differences between contact cement and rubber cement.
Material
The first major difference between contact cement and rubber cement lies in the materials they are made of.
Contact cement is typically composed of natural rubber or polychloroprene (neoprene).
On the other hand, rubber cement is made from elastic polymers, often mixed with solvents such as heptane, hexane, toluene, or acetone.
Applications
When choosing between contact cement and rubber cement, it’s crucial to consider the intended use.
Contact cement is best suited for applications that require a strong bond. It works well with materials like wood, tiles, metal, leather, and plastic.
On the other hand, rubber cement is more suitable for lighter and more delicate applications, such as bonding cardboard and paper.
It creates a temporary bond between thin and lightweight materials, making it perfect for art or handicraft projects.
Drying Time
Another important factor to consider is the drying time of the cement. Rubber cement generally dries quicker, typically within two minutes.
However, when applied as a thick coat, the drying time may extend to 15 minutes or longer.
Contact cement, on the other hand, takes around 15 to 30 minutes to dry. It’s worth noting that drying times can vary between different brands of cement.
Removal
Accidental spills or leftover cement on surfaces can be a common occurrence.
In such cases, rubber cement is easier to remove without causing damage, even on thin materials.
Contact cement, on the other hand, requires more effort to remove. It may involve using heat or solvents to effectively eliminate the cement from surfaces.
Repositioning
Making mistakes while attempting to bond materials is not uncommon.
When it comes to repositioning, rubber cement is easier to work with due to its flexible nature, allowing for easy dissolution and readjustment.
Contact cement, on the other hand, forms a stronger and more permanent bond, making repositioning more challenging.
What Is Contact Cement?
Contact cement is a popular adhesive choice for many DIY enthusiasts due to its ability to create a permanent, flexible, and quick bond.
It is primarily made from neoprene rubber and is commonly used in heavy and non-porous materials that other adhesives may struggle to handle.
Contact cement does not require clamping for the surfaces to bond and can be applied to both surfaces, creating a strong adhesive bond.
1. Two Types of Contact Cement
There are two main types of contact cement available: water-based and solvent-based.
Water-based contact cement does not contain VOCs (volatile organic compounds), making it safer to use.
However, it forms a weaker bond compared to its solvent-based counterpart.
Solvent-based contact cement, as the name suggests, contains solvents and provides a stronger adhesive bond.
2. How to Apply Contact Cement
Applying contact cement is a straightforward process, even for beginners. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
- Find a well-ventilated area to work in.
- Ensure that the surfaces you intend to bond are clean and free from dirt and debris.
- Use a disposable roller or brush to apply contact cement to both surfaces.
- Allow the cement to dry for at least 15 minutes or until it sets.
- Once dry, remove any excess glue from the sides using a suitable material, such as a nail polish remover containing acetone.
3. How to Remove Contact Cement
If you need to remove contact cement, follow these steps:
- Identify the ingredients of the contact cement you used.
- Look for a solvent that contains the same ingredients.
- Moisten the glue with the solvent and wait for it to soften.
- Depending on the surface, use a wire brush or scraper to remove the softened glue.
- Use your fingers to remove any remaining residue.
Pros and Cons of Contact Cement
Pros:
- Forms a strong bond between surfaces
- Long shelf-life
- Water-resistant
- Does not require heat for activation
Cons:
- Not suitable for porous materials
- May be prone to cracking and peeling
- Color may fade with sun exposure
- Difficult to repair once cracks occur
What Is Rubber Cement?
Rubber cement is made from elastic polymers combined with solvents such as hexane and acetone.
It is a versatile adhesive commonly used in various applications, particularly in arts and crafts.
Unlike contact cement, rubber cement can be applied to a single surface and creates a strong bond as the solvents evaporate.
1. How to Apply Rubber Cement
Applying rubber cement is a simple process. Follow these steps:
- Find a well-ventilated area to work in.
- Apply rubber cement to one of the surfaces you wish to bond, using as little as possible.
- Wait for a few seconds until the rubber cement appears less shiny and wet.
- Place the other material on top, adjusting the position as needed.
- For temporary bonds, move the materials while the adhesive is still drying. For permanent bonds, apply the adhesive to both surfaces.
2. How to Remove Rubber Cement
To remove residual rubber cement, follow these steps:
- Use the back of a plastic spoon to scrape off the rubber cement, especially if it has not yet dried completely.
- Dampen a clean cloth with rubbing alcohol and lightly pat the rubber cement.
- Apply mineral spirit to a brush and use it to remove any remaining rubber cement.
- Finish by using a clean cloth dampened with water to remove any traces of the cement.
Pros and Cons of Rubber Cement
Pros:
- Versatile adhesive with many applications
- Well-suited for arts and crafts
- Waterproof and unaffected by rain
- Dries quickly
- Affordable and readily available
Cons:
- Not suitable for heavy or thick materials
- May lose stickiness over time
- Can suffer from chemical breakdown with age
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is rubber cement the same as contact cement?
No, rubber cement and contact cement are not the same.
Rubber cement is primarily used to bond rubber with other materials, while contact cement is designed to bond two surfaces or materials together.
2. Which is better, contact cement or rubber cement?
The choice between contact cement and rubber cement depends on the intended purpose.
Rubber cement is ideal for bonding lightweight materials such as paper or cardboard.
On the other hand, contact cement is better suited for heavier and thicker materials like wood or metal.
3. Does temperature affect the drying time of cement?
Yes, temperature does affect the drying time of both rubber cement and contact cement.
Higher temperatures generally result in faster drying times. However, other factors such as humidity can also influence drying time.
In conclusion, contact cement and rubber cement are both suitable adhesives, but they have distinct properties and applications.
Rubber cement is well-suited for art projects and bonding lightweight materials, while contact cement is better for heavier and thicker materials.
Regardless of the type of cement you choose, always work in a well-ventilated area, clean the surfaces thoroughly, and select a reliable brand for optimal results.
Shery
