Rubber cement

Rubber cement is a common household adhesive, most often used by children due to its low toxicity and ease of cleanup. It is primarily used for glueing various types of paper.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

It is made from polymers mixed in a solvent such as acetone or benzene to keep them fluid enough to be used. This makes it part of the class of drying adhesives: as the solvent evaporates, the "rubber" part remains behind forming a strong yet flexible bond.

Related Topics:
Polymer - Solvent - Acetone - Benzene

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Rubber cement is used in art applications as unlike water-based casein glues (white or "Elmer's" glue), rubber cement does not shrink much and so does not wrinkle the adhered surfaces. It also does not become brittle like paste does. Rubber cement is safe for use with photographs and specialty papers as it will not cause them to deteriorate over time, a danger associated with many other common adhesives.

Related Topics:
Casein - Glue

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The formula for rubber cement varies from brand to brand and has changed over time due to concerns of the toxicity of the chemicals involved, especially in regards to its use by children. Most rubber cement available today is quite safe though. The solvents have also been criticized for potential of abuse as inhalants or at the very least, that they can be a respiratory hazard. For this reason, as with any adhesive, rubber cement should be used in a well-ventilated area.

Related Topics:
Potential of abuse - Inhalants - Respiratory

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

In the UK, the most common latex-based adhesive 'Copydex' uses an ammonia and water solvent, and needs no special handling, making it very child-friendly. While for this reason it is often given to children, it is also used in artwork, and finds widespread use in light D.I.Y. work such as fixing carpet tiles and repairing upholstery.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~