Re: [Paddlewise] glue for minicell/polyethylene

From: Dave Kruger <dkruger_at_pacifier.com>
Date: Fri, 09 Jul 1999 21:10:13 -0700
Elaine Harmon wrote:
> 
> On Sat, 10 Jul 1999, Peter Osman wrote:
> 
> > Don't know if its been suggested yet but I was told that the glue used by
> > plumbers for PVC pipe should work on polythene - haven't tried it myself -
> > probably wise to try it on scrap polythene first.
> 
> Hmm. If you've ever used the stuff on PVC you'll know that it reacts with
> and softens the plastic. I wouldn't put it on MY boat. 

The odor of the PVC glue includes the odor of MEK, so I think it has some in
it.

The glue works in PVC by dissolving a little of the surface of the PVC.  When
the solvents evaporate, the PVC resolidifies.  That's why the joints can
withstand the pressure of a household water system.  Not to worry about your
water pipes turning to jelly!

I suspect the PVC glue does NOT dissolve the polyethylene in rotomolded sea
kayaks.  Any bond it makes must depend on a mechanical adhesion, thus the need
to scruff the surface of the polyethylene with 80 grit sandpaper.  No need to
worry about your polyethylene boat becoming a liquid, because PVC and
polyethylene have different dissolving properties.

-- 
Dave Kruger
Astoria, OR
sea kayaker
chemist
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Received on Fri Jul 09 1999 - 21:12:04 PDT

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