To understand and explore the different mechanisms by which adhesives and sealants can cure to form a permanent bond. Examples of the evaporation cure include Elmer s Glue and rubber cement. Chemical cure involves a polymerization which bonds together two surfaces or can also provide a barrier for heat loss or water intrusion. Super glue is composed of monomers known as cyanoacrylate, which, upon exposure to trace water or trace alkalinity, will rapidly polymerize to linear material.
Silicone sealants are another example of chemical curing.
The silicone sealant contains a low molecular weight pre-polymer, which, upon exposure to atmospheric moisture, undergoes a polymerization reaction to afford the final product. Rubber Cement Place some of the rubber cement on a piece of paper and let it stand several minutes. Once the solvent has evaporated, examine the properties residue and compare the volume of the residue to the original amount of cement. Squeeze one drop of the super glue onto the top of the water droplet. Observe changes in the super glue.