TAP Article: Best Glue For Plexiglass

The Best Glue for Plexiglass and Acrylic Bonding

Acrylic, commonly known as Plexiglass, Perspex, or Optics, is a versatile material used in DIY, industrial, and commercial applications. When bonding acrylic to acrylic or other materials like glass, wood, or plastic, using the right plexiglass glue ensures durability and a seamless finish.

Choosing the Right Plexiglass Glue

TAP Acrylic Cement
Different types of adhesives work for different situations and materials. Many of the products we supply here at TAP Plastics can also be applied to other plastics with gluing properties similar to acrylic. TAP Acrylic Cement, for example, is an all-purpose, solvent-type cement that is compounded for use on clear and colored acrylic sheets, such as ACRYLITE, Plexiglas, and Lucite. Our signature acrylic cement is generally used for edge gluing and softens the surface of plexiglass by welding the two surfaces together. For best results, we recommend using our Hypo-Applicator.

- 3M Fastbond is a water-based, high-strength contact adhesive that offers excellent heat resistance and high coverage. You can apply this adhesive by brush, roll, or spray to bond plastic laminates and all kinds of materials.

Devcon’s Super Glue with cyanoacrylate is a general-purpose adhesive that provides a fast, strong, and permanent bond to almost any non-porous surface, such as plastic, rubber, metal, glass, and other materials.

E-6000 is a unique adhesive formulated to meet industrial requirements and adhere to a wide variety of surfaces, such as ceramics, concrete, fiberglass, glass, metal, wood, vinyl, or plastics. E-6100 features a thicker, non-sag formulation that won’t slump or run. E-6000 even comes as a spray adhesive for use on multiple surfaces.

SCS2000 SilPruf is a high-strength silicone sealant that is supplied as a paste. Upon curing, this adhesive produces a durable, formed-in-place silicone rubber joint sealant for many substrates and finishes, such as glass, polycarbonate, plexiglass, and vinyl.

SCIGRIP Weld-On 3 and 4 solvent cement are also perfect for bonding plexiglass and other plastics, such as styrene, butyrate, PETG, and polycarbonate to themselves. SCRIGRIP Weld-On 16 cement is a heavy-bodied solvent formulated for use with industrial-grade acrylics. You should always test your application for blushing before deciding on the right glue for your project, especially if an aesthetic seam is critical. This video shows an example of how to use acrylic cement.

Preparation Tips for Bonding Acrylic

Before you begin gluing any plexiglass, you should take extra care in making sure that the edges are as flat and smooth as possible. You can create a clean edge on your acrylic using fine sandpaper before wiping the edges with isopropyl alcohol to remove any fragments of dirt or dust from the surface. Even the oil from your skin can impact the process and result in a bad joint. If you are using solvents, we recommend working in a well-ventilated space.

Be careful not to cement any edges that have been flamed or polished; otherwise, crazing will result. If the cement is accidentally spilled on the acrylic sheet, allow it to dry through evaporation. Wiping it off will only further mar the surface. To avoid scratches, leave the protective masking material on the plexiglass in place while cutting, drilling, and sanding. When exposed to direct sunlight, the masking material may be difficult or impossible to remove.

How to Bond Acrylic to Acrylic

What you will need:

  • Acrylic cement or super glue
  • Sandpaper
  • Isopropyl alcohol
  • Syringe or dropper

Plexiglass pieces are not glued together – they are chemically welded together using special cement. Acrylic cement, for example, bonds plexiglass pieces permanently. For best results, follow these steps:

  1. Prepare the Surface – Sand edges smooth and clean with isopropyl alcohol.
  2. Choose the Right Application Method:
    1. Capillary Method – Align pieces snugly, apply acrylic cement, and let it wick into the joint.
    2. Gap-Filling Method – For uneven edges, use a thicker adhesive like Weld-On 16.
  3. Secure & Cure – Hold pieces in place until set; full strength develops in 24–48 hours


Capillary Method: The joints or surfaces you wish to bond must fit together snugly because acrylic cement will not fill any gaps caused by uneven edges. Furthermore, the plexiglass pieces must be supported in place until the cement fully sets. The acrylic cement will flow into the joint through capillary action and fixed quickly, reaching high strength within 24 – 48 hours, firm enough for you to proceed with your work.
 

In terms of a quick and cost-effective bond, there are many affordable adhesives you can use to glue two pieces of plastic together! This video shows how to glue acrylic pieces together to make your own acrylic box or cover.

Now that you know more about the best glue for plexiglass, you can confidently take on any plexiglass bonding project.

Best of all, you can stock up on the adhesives and supplies you need for cementing plexiglass online or at one of the many TAP locations near you. If you have any questions about this guide or the products we have mentioned, please feel free to contact us for additional information from a plexiglass expert today.