Figuring out what glue sticks to silicone can be tricky, especially when you’re trying to bond two silicone pieces together. Because silicone is slippery and has low surface energy, regular glue just won’t stick.
That’s why you need special adhesives made for silicone. These silicone adhesives are designed with materials that work well with silicone, so they create a strong bond.
If you want to learn more about how these adhesives work and when to use them, keep reading!
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Is it Possible to Get Adhesive to Stick to Silicone?
Yes, it’s possible to get adhesive to stick to silicone. Companies have made tons of adhesives that can only stick to silicone. One of the most famous adhesives for silicone is the “SIlicone Laminating Adhesive Tape.”
Regular white glue (PVA) and hot glue don’t stick to silicone because it’s too smooth. Most standard epoxies need to be roughened on the surface to bond well.
Rubber cement isn’t strong enough for a lasting hold. Spray adhesives work on porous surfaces, so they don’t work on silicone. Most contact cements also have trouble sticking.
Types of Adhesive for Bonding Silicone
1. Silicone Adhesives
The silicone adhesives are specifically designed to stick to silicone or ceramic tiles. They use similar materials, which helps them bond strongly. They stay flexible, so they can handle bending and moving. This makes them perfect for use in cars and other places where parts need to move without breaking.
2. Silicone Sealants (RTV 102, RTV 106, RTV 108)
RTV 102, RTV 106, and RTV 108 are silicone sealants that can stick to many surfaces, including silicone. These adhesives don’t need any primer to stick. They are great for sealing gaps and cracks. Despite moving or changing shapes, their flexibility helps them stay stuck.
3. Gorilla Glue
Gorilla Glue is a super-strong and waterproof adhesive. It works well on a variety of surfaces, including silicone. As soon as it dries, it forms a strong bond. Therefore, it is perfect for outdoor projects or areas that are prone to moisture.
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4. Silicone Laminating Adhesive Tapes
Silicone laminating adhesive tapes have one sticky side. They are designed to bond well with silicone. They are hassle-free tapes, just press them onto the surface. These tapes are perfect for quick fixes and can hold strong, making them very handy.
5. Special Acrylics/Pressure-Sensitive Adhesives (PSA)
These adhesives are made to stick quickly and firmly when you press them down. Some special acrylics and PSAs work well on silicone surfaces. They are great for mounting things or making fast repairs since they don’t need time to dry.
6. Heat Vulcanized Silicone Glue
Heat vulcanized silicone glue is heated during use. This helps it bond well with silicone. It’s good for high-temperature areas, creating a strong, flexible bond. This glue lasts a long time and is great for tough jobs.
7. Epoxy Adhesives
Epoxy adhesives are robust. They come in two parts: a sticky resin and a hardener. When you mix them, they create a strong bond. If you scratch the silicone surface first, the epoxy sticks even better.
8. Polyurethane Adhesives
Polyurethane adhesives are strong and flexible. They can stick to many surfaces, including silicone. They can handle some movement without breaking. As a result, it will be good for things that need to stretch or bend.
9. Cyanoacrylate (Super Glue)
Cyanoacrylate, or super glue, sticks very quickly. It works best on small projects. If you rough up the silicone surface a bit, it can stick well. Just be careful, because it dries fast. Once it’s on, it can be hard to fix.
10. MS Polymer Adhesives
MS polymer adhesives are strong and flexible. They are made to stick to tricky surfaces like silicone. They bond well because they can move slightly, helping them stay stuck even if things shift.
11. Pressure-Sensitive Adhesives (PSA)
Pressure-sensitive adhesives are sticky on one side. You just press them onto the surface, and they stick! Some can bond to silicone easily. They are great for quick fixes since you don’t have to wait for glue to dry.
12. Hot Melt Adhesives
Hot melt adhesives come in glue sticks. You melt them and apply them while hot. Once they cool, they stick things together. Some special types can bond to silicone. They are useful for crafts and small projects, but they might not be as strong as other types of glue.
Editor’s Opinion
As someone who loves experimenting, I have worked with these adhesives a few times. From my experience, silicone adhesives and sealants like RTV 102 and RTV 106 are fantastic because they bond well without needing a primer.
Gorilla Glue is another favorite of mine, especially for outdoor projects. Overall, silicone is hard to bond, you can find one of these glues handy.