What can glue condom material to hard plastic?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the challenge of constructing a plastic cube using hard plastic panels connected by flexible materials. The primary suggestion for flexibility was using condom rubber; however, participants advised against it due to its limited durability and expansion capabilities. Alternatives such as JB Weld and Gorilla Glue were recommended for adhesion, with Gorilla Glue noted for its expansion during curing. Additionally, suggestions included using elastomers or a balloon as a more effective solution for creating an expandable structure.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of adhesive properties, specifically JB Weld and Gorilla Glue.
  • Knowledge of elastomers and their strain capabilities.
  • Familiarity with the physical properties of flexible materials.
  • Basic principles of mechanical design for expandable structures.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the properties of elastomers for flexibility and durability.
  • Explore the application techniques of JB Weld and Gorilla Glue for plastic bonding.
  • Investigate alternative flexible materials suitable for expandable designs.
  • Learn about mechanical design principles for creating expandable or adjustable structures.
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Manufacturers, product designers, engineers, and hobbyists involved in creating expandable structures or working with plastic materials.

WilkinzMicawber
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I am manufacturing a plastic cube out of six flat, hard pieces plastic, of the same consistency as water bottle plastic. The top and bottom sides of the cube will be connected to the middle 4 panels by condom rubber. I need some kind of bendable plastic that can expand so that the cube can grow larger, and my only idea thus far is condoms. Does anyone either know of an adhesive that binds condoms to hard rubber, or know of a better solution to my problem than condoms? Any help is appreciated.
 
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JB Weld will glue anything to anything. I've also heard that Gorilla Glue is good but I've never used it.
 
WilkinzMicawber said:
I am manufacturing a plastic cube out of six flat, hard pieces plastic, of the same consistency as water bottle plastic. The top and bottom sides of the cube will be connected to the middle 4 panels by condom rubber. I need some kind of bendable plastic that can expand so that the cube can grow larger, and my only idea thus far is condoms. Does anyone either know of an adhesive that binds condoms to hard rubber, or know of a better solution to my problem than condoms? Any help is appreciated.
By how much does the cube expand?

One needs an elastomer that can strain to the desired range, ostensibly without failure.

http://www.dupont.com/products-and-services/plastics-polymers-resins/elastomers/articles/guide-to-elastomer-properties.html

If one uses an adhesive, then is must form a bond without being to rigid.
 
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phinds said:
JB Weld will glue anything to anything. I've also heard that Gorilla Glue is good but I've never used it.
Gorilla glue (polyurethane glue) expands quite a bit as it cures - it foams up. So there is that to consider.
 
Gorilla glue also gets hot as it cures.

BoB
 
WilkinzMicawber said:
I need some kind of bendable plastic that can expand so that the cube can grow larger, and my only idea thus far is condoms.

Condom material does not expand much, and is made thin on purpose so it's not very durable. I don't think it is a material you should consider for this project.

Is this device related to your other thread? https://www.physicsforums.com/threa...project-help-appreciated.834103/#post-5237814

Can the top and bottom instead move into the cube to change its volume? They would act more like pistons, and you would then just need to figure out how best to seal the edges of the top and bottom against the inner surface of the box formed by the sides. Or could you just change to a cylindrical shape to simplify the sealing of the top and bottom against the inner surface of the cylinder?

:smile:
 
If this must be an expandable box you could get a balloon that is the approximate size you need. Glue flat panels to it. When expanding, if there are small failures of the adhesive you will still maintain a seal.

BoB
 

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