There are many types of glass adhesives to suit different applications, whether you are bonding glass to metal or glass to glass, here are some recommendations on the best adhesives to use.
What is the best adhesive for bonding glass?
Glass to metal bonding
UV Curable Adhesives
Can bond substrates with different thermal expansions, providing the best adhesion for glass. These adhesives use light instead of heat to create a photochemical process that causes the adhesive to harden.
These adhesives form high strength bonds that are flexible, stress absorbing and good for load-bearing joints. Other benefits include optical clarity, non-yellowing and the ability to cure in seconds on demand. Some recommended products to use are the Permabond UV610 and Permabond UV625.
Permabond UV610 is a single part, fast setting adhesive designed for bonding glass to metal. The adhesive has no solvents, making it environmentally friendly and it provides a colourless clear bond. Ideal for industries that manufacture glass furniture that requires high strength edge joints.
Permabond UV625 is a fast curing, thixotropic adhesive for bonding and sealing glass and metal joints. The adhesive is tough and flexible with good impact resistance. The gel-like viscosity makes it a non-drip adhesive, perfect for dispensing on vertical surfaces or where there are large gaps.
Glass to glass bonding – The Best Glass Adhesive
MS Polymer Glass Adhesives
MS Polymer Glass AdhesivesThese are good for glass to glass bonding, although some UV Curable Adhesives (UV625) can also be used. These glass adhesives are high strength, easy to apply with a pleasant, mild odour and non-yellowing. A recommended product to use is the Permabond MS359 Clear.
Permabond MS359 Clear is a single part, high viscosity, optically clear adhesive for glass to glass applications, making it a good choice when the aesthetic appearance is important. The adhesive is free from silicones, isocyanates and PVC compounds and is weather resistant making it ideal for exterior construction.
To maximise the performance of the adhesive, it is essential to prepare the surface before application.
Preparing to Fix & Bond Glass
- Along with carefully selecting your glass adhesive, you’ll need to properly clean surfaces to ensure the best bond. Steel wool can also help smooth off any grit. It’s also useful to have a razor blade on hand for shaving away any excess glue.
- Only work with a clean, dry surface that is free of oil, wax, paint, or any type of soapy residue left over, as even the smallest contaminant can affect bond strength.
- Examine the parts to be joined and test the fit to ensure the glass fits the surface well. Clear away any particles and materials obstructing the bond.
Surface Preparation
The surface should be dry, clean and free from grease, oil and any other contaminants.
For glass surfaces, use a solvent wipe to remove greasy residues to make it easier for the glass adhesive to bond. You can use solvents such as Acetone or Isopropanol over the surface, but make sure the solvent has completely evaporated before bonding using the glass adhesive.
For metal applications, such as aluminium and copper, you can use a fine emery cloth to lightly abrade the surface to remove the oxide layer.
For more advice on bonding glass, please contact us.
