Styrofoam is the brand name trademark associated with the material expanded polystyrene or extruded polystyrene foam. Styrofoam is a synthetic polymer derived from polystyrene that is sourced from petroleum or natural gas. The most common variation of expanded polystyrene is made of expanding beads that with exposure to heat result in a lightweight open-cell structure.
Criteria for Selection
When working with polystyrene foam, choosing the right adhesive is crucial to achieving a long-lasting durable bond. Styrofoam is a lightweight and fragile material and very sensitive to chemical solvents. Therefore, some key criteria require consideration before selecting the best glue for Styrofoam.
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Compatibility with Styrofoam
The primary criterion is compatibility with polystyrene. Some adhesives are known to contain chemicals such as acetone or toluene which can dissolve or degrade polystyrene. Specifically, you want to evaluate a foam-safe adhesive such as cyanoacrylate or polyvinyl acetate glue.
PVA Glue: Is ideal for crafts, lightweight and non-toxic
Spray Adhesives: Foam-safe versions are great for large areas or laminating
Epoxy: Provide a strong bond for structural applications
Foam-Safe Cyanoacrylate: Quick, durable, and versatile for detailed projects.
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Bonding Strength
Depending on the application, you will require an adhesive that can produce a moderate to high-strength bond. Bond strength can vary depending on the material bonded to polystyrene such as metal, paper, wood, or plastic.
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Type of Application
The adhesive’s suitability depends on the specific use case. Some adhesives are quick setting which leads to an immediate permanent bond without time for readjustments. Slow-setting adhesives leave ample time to readjust the pieces for better alignment. You may also need to consider the weather conditions the bond may be exposed to such as UV light, water, and temperature fluctuations.
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Drying and Curing Time
There are both slow and fast-curing adhesives. Slow-curing adhesives provide more time for precise alignment and are ideal for large-scale or intricate projects. On the contrary, fast-curing adhesives are suitable for quick repairs and areas where immediate results are needed.
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Application Method
Depending on your skill level, you may need to consider the ease of application. Liquid glues are often applied with brushes or directly from the bottle and are ideal for detailed work. Similarly, spray adhesives provide even coverage over large surfaces and work well when laminating polystyrene sheets. Furthermore, glue guns are safe for Styrofoam but only at a low temperature.
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Thermal Resistance
Styrofoam is often used in environments where temperature fluctuations are common. Therefore, the adhesive bond must withstand these conditions without jeopardizing bond strength.
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Water Resistance
Waterproofing is another important consideration when selecting the best adhesive for Styrofoam. Applications where the Styrofoam will be exposed to water require a water-resistant or waterproof adhesive for best results.
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Non-Toxicity and Safety
Non-toxicity is important when adhesives are made up of chemicals that may be hazardous. Projects involving food-related applications or where ventilation is low especially require close attention. Consider choosing an adhesive with a low volatile compound (VOC) rating or a food-safe certification.
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Aesthetic Consideration
Select a glue that dries clear and maintains a clean transparent finish for visible joints. Some adhesives leave an opaque finish or result in undesirable discoloration.
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Cost Affordability and Availability
Depending on your project size, you may want to consider purchasing bulk supplies for large projects and low-volume packages for smaller projects. Most adhesives can be purchased online or in-store at a home improvement outlet.
5 Best Glues for Polystyrene Foam
Below we review the 5 best glues for polystyrene foam:
Gorilla Original Spray Adhesive
Gorilla Original Spray Adhesive is a versatile and reliable option for bonding polystyrene foam. It is adept for large projects like laminating foam boards or attaching them to other surfaces. The spray application ensures even coverage and solvent-free formula prevents damage to the polystyrene foam material. The bond is water-resistant and flexible making it suitable for applications where mild moisture exposure is possible.
One of the drawbacks of this product is the risk of overspray which will require careful masking or working in a controlled environment. Furthermore, it bonds well to dissimilar materials like wood, fabric, and paper. It is not suitable for industrial grade applications. Moreover, it dries clear which is an advantage for aesthetic projects.
UHU Por Glue
UHU Por is a specialist adhesive designed specifically for polystyrene foam or Styrofoam. It is ideal for detailed crafts and model making because it ensures compatibility with foam and doesn’t melt or deform the material when applied. The bond strength is good and it is water-resistant making it suitable for indoor and outdoor use.
One of UHU Por’s key strengths is its quick drying time which makes it suitable for jobs where time is a concern. However, this may be a downside if you need extra time to make readjustments. It works well in intricate applications where precision is necessary such as attaching small foam parts or assembling models. It also dries clear which provides an aesthetic professional finish.
Loctite PL 300 Foamboard Adhesive
Loctite PL 300 Foamboard Adhesive is a high-performance glue made specifically for construction projects involving Styrofoam insulation boards. It is a water-based formula which means it will not degrade or melt the Styrofoam which is often a concern with solvent-based adhesives. The adhesive is applied with a caulking gun, which means you will need to make the extra investment but it’s worth it because it provides precision application capability.
The bond strength is good, and it is weather-resistant. It is suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications. Loctite PL 300 does have a slower curing time which may make it inconvenient for quick assembly.
Overall, Loctite PL 300 is an excellent choice for construction application and DIYers who need a dependable, heavy-duty adhesive for polystyrene foam.
Beacon Foam-Tac
Beacon-Foam Tax is a superior choice among DIYers because of its versatility and ease of use. This adhesive provides a strong, flexible bond that can withstand light stress, making it suitable for projects like model airplanes, decorations, and other lightweight uses.
The Foam-Tac is a fast setting which makes it suitable for uses where time is of the essence. It doesn’t emit harmful fumes, and it does not melt the foam when applied. Its typically recommended for artistic and decorative projects but may be suitable for other small-scale projects.
Aleene’s Tacky Glue
Aleene’s Tacky Glue is a classic option for lightweight Styrofoam crafting projects. It is a water-based PVA adhesive, that is non-toxic and easy to use. It has a thick consistency that prevents dripping which is an advantage for intricate projects or vertical surfaces.
Overall, Aleen’s Tacky Glue is well-suited for light-duty applications. It does not provide the durability or water resistance needed for heavy-grade applications but is a budget-friendly lightweight adhesive for Styrofoam.
Conclusion
| Glue | Best For | Key Features |
| Gorilla Spray Adhesive | Large surface bonding, crafting | – Foam-safe, solvent-free – Even spray application – Dries clear – Water-resistant, flexible |
| UHU Por Glue | Model making, precision crafts | – Specifically for Styrofoam – Strong, flexible bond – Moisture-resistant – Dries clear |
| Loctite PL 300 | Construction, insulation boards | – Foamboard-specific – Weather-resistant bond – Low odor – Applied with a caulking gun |
| Beacon Foam-Tac | Lightweight crafts, models | – Foam-safe, fast-setting – Flexible bond – No harmful fumes – Small tube packaging |
| Aleene’s Tacky Glue | School projects, lightweight crafts | – Non-toxic, water-based – Dries clear – Thick, non-drip formula – Affordable and easy to use |
In conclusion, we recommended the 5 best glues for polystyrene foam that are suitable for a wide range of applications from lightweight decorative projects to heavy-duty foam board lamination. Investigate each option further and make a selection when you’re ready.
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