How does iron oxide accelerate cyanoacrylate glue curing?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the effectiveness of iron oxide as an accelerant for cyanoacrylate glue curing, comparing it to traditional accelerants like bicarbonate and graphite. Users noted that a mixture of bicarbonate and graphite is commonly used, but iron oxide, particularly derived from burning steel wool, demonstrated superior performance. The chemical properties of iron(III) oxide, including its weak basicity and ability to absorb moisture, contribute to its effectiveness in accelerating the curing process by increasing the availability of hydroxyl ions, which initiate the polymerization reaction.

PREREQUISITES
  • Chemical properties of iron(III) oxide
  • Understanding of cyanoacrylate glue chemistry
  • Knowledge of accelerants in adhesive applications
  • Basic principles of polymerization reactions
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the chemical interactions between iron oxide and cyanoacrylate adhesives
  • Explore the role of hydroxyl ions in polymerization processes
  • Investigate other potential accelerants for cyanoacrylate glue
  • Watch educational videos on adhesive chemistry, such as those by Veritasium
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for chemists, materials scientists, and hobbyists interested in optimizing adhesive performance, particularly those working with cyanoacrylate glues and their accelerants.

bland
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I was perusing superglue accelerants like bi carb and graphic or a mix of the two, and other additives, and it appears that a mix of bi carb and graphite works the best. However I eventually came across a single vid that used iron oxide made from burning steel wool, as the additive and it appeared to be superior to bi carb and carbon.

I have heard that it is the alkaline nature of bi carb that acts as the accelerant but now I am curious as to the chemical reason that iron oxide also works. Is it just the extra oxygen, or does the iron itself have something to do with it.
 
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Iron(III) oxide will react with acids, so by definition it is a (weak) base, it just won't dissolve in water in the Fe2O3 form. Also, post the videos you are referring to. This way we can avoid guess work and incorrect interpretations.
 
bland said:
I have heard that it is the alkaline nature of bi carb that acts as the accelerant but now I am curious as to the chemical reason that iron oxide also works. Is it just the extra oxygen, or does the iron itself have something to do with it.
Hydroxyl ions from the water in the air is the initiator of the chain reaction to solidify the glue.
Bicarbonate, and iron oxide, should absorb water from the air. The greater abundance of initiators would make for a quicker glue set.

it so happens that I had just viewed a video by Veritasium earlier today on this type of glue.
 

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