How to bond ABS? Achieve success bonding ABS

What is ABS? ABS stands for Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene, a common thermoplastic that is quite easy to bond.  Which ABS adhesive is best?  Various types of plastic adhesives (plastic glues) bond ABS. A few of the most common include cyanoacrylates, 2-part epoxies, structural acrylics, and UV curable adhesives.

ABS Adhesive Types

All grades of cyanoacrylates, two-part epoxies, polyurethanes, and structural acrylics bond ABS. Consider MS polymers for a flexible solution.  In addition to all of the above, UV curable adhesives form strong bonds and can be considered, providing light can reach the bond joint.

To determine the best specific ABS adhesive for your application, please provide some detail to our technical team, and we will get back to you with a recommendation. Alternatively, the following charts might help you choose the best type of ABS adhesive for your application.  Consider, for example, whether your application requires solvent or temperature resistance, among other things.

How to glue ABS?  Once you’ve narrowed down the type of chemistry and chosen a product, there are directions for use on the product’s technical datasheet.

Note: Products can withstand higher temperatures for brief periods providing the joint is not unduly stressed.

Tips for ABS surface preparation:

1. Generally, if the ABS surface is clean and dry, and free from contamination, bond ABS “As Received.”
2. However, if you wish to do a solvent wipe before bonding or for clean-up afterward, use isopropanol or Permabond Cleaner A.  While acetone is an excellent cleaner, it can be too aggressive and consequently will attack the plastic.

ABS Properties:

• Surface energy: 42 mJ/m²
• Maximum service temperature: 89°C
• Softening temperature: 100°C
• Normally opaque but clear grades are available
• Because clear grades are often UV stabilized (hence they don’t transmit UV light), it is best to check for UV light transmission.  If UV light isn’t transmitted, a UV-Visible light cured product can be used.

ABS Uses:

• Musical instruments
• Toys
• Electronic enclosures & assemblies
• Computer keyboard keys
• Luggage
• Buffer edging on furniture

Trade names: LUSTRAN® ,CycolacTM, Terluran, Magnum CLR95
Cycolac is a trademark of SABIC or its subsidiaries or affiliates.
Lustran® is a registered trademark of INEOS ABS (USA) Corporation.
TERLURAN is a registered trademark of BASF Corporation or BASF SE.