SCIGRIP 3* is a water-thin, non-flammable cement formulated to quickly develop high strength, clear bonds to many thermoplastic substrates, particularly acrylic. The bond is achieved by first softening the surfaces to be joined and then fusing them together with dissipation of the solvent.

The initial bond forms within a few minutes and quickly increases in strength. Substantial strength will be obtained within only a few hours. Under certain conditions, especially with high humidity, a white mark on the plastic (commonly called blushing) may sometimes be encountered. Where a more blush resistant cement and longer open time is required, SCIGRIP 4 is recommended.

SUBSTRATE RECOMMENDATIONS
SCIGRIP® 3 is formulated for cementing acrylic (poly-methyl methacrylate) plastic to itself. It will also form strong bonds with other thermoplastics such as polystyrene, CAB (cellulose acetate butyrate), PETG (polyethylene terephthalate glycol) and polycarbonate to themselves. It is not recommended for cross-linked acrylic.

SUGGESTED BONDING APPLICATIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
SCIGRIP 3 is used extensively in sign fabrication. Strong butt joints are made with flat sheets by using the soak method for such applications as cementing letters to acrylic panels. Butyrate trim-capping of acrylics is another highly recommended use for SCIGRIP 3. It is also widely used in the POP industry (e.g. display), and in the fabrication and bonding of plastic containers, housewares, bottles and many other applications using the capillary method.

DIRECTIONS FOR USE
GENERAL: Surfaces to be joined must be clean, dry, and fit intimately without forcing. Apply cement with syringe, eyedropper or brush. Assemble while parts are still wet. If cement is applied to one surface, let the two surfaces be in gentle contact for a few seconds to allow the cement to soften the dry surfaces, then press parts together in firm contact. Initial bonds form very quickly. 65 – 80% of the ultimate bond strength will be obtained within 24 hours. Strength will continue to increase for several weeks.

SOAK METHOD: Vertically dip surfaces until softened (approximately 2 to 5 minutes), then join pieces firmly together.

• In many cases, this cement dries too fast to apply by brush to the parts before they are joined.

• If crazing is a problem, we suggest you consider annealing before cementing.