Alexei Volkov
Gluing plastic to wood can be a complicated process. The first step is to identify the type of plastic you are working with. The recycling symbol, which is typically a symbol with three arrows and a number in the centre, can be used to identify the type of plastic. Once the type of plastic is identified, you can choose the right type of glue. For example, epoxy glue works on almost every type of plastic and creates a very strong bond, while hot glue may not work on heat-resistant plastics and will weaken if exposed to warmth after it has cooled down. After applying the glue, you should press the plastic and wood together and let it set for a couple of hours.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Types of glue | Super glue, Epoxy, Hot glue, Polyurethane adhesive, Silicone sealant, Universal adhesive, Clear and fast-setting polymer, Wood glue, Grab adhesive, Contact adhesive, Gorilla tack, Spray adhesive, Polyurethane adhesive and sealant |
| Preparation | Identify the type of plastic, Sand the plastic surface, Clean the wooden piece with a damp cloth, Roughen the surface |
| Considerations | Strength of bond, Flexibility, Durability, Waterproofing, Ventilation, Working conditions, Safety |
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What You'll Learn
Identify the plastic type
The first step in identifying the type of plastic you are dealing with is to look for the resin identification code. This is usually a number surrounded by a triangle of arrows, or a "chasing arrows" symbol, and is often imprinted on the bottom of containers. This is the easiest way to identify the plastic type.
There are seven main types of plastics, each with slight variations in feel, use, colour, and chemical composition. The codes range from 1 to 6, with code 7 being a general category for all other types of plastic. Unfortunately, the codes do not indicate toxicity or safety, and manufacturers are not required to disclose other chemicals added to the plastic polymer.
Some common plastics and their codes are:
- Polyester and PET plastics (symbol 1)
- High-Density Polyethylene (symbol 2)
- Polyethylene (symbol unknown) - this has a smooth texture and is flexible, but can leave marks. It can be identified by a blue flame with yellow tips when burned.
- Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) (symbol unknown) - this is thin and can crumble in your hands, and will make a loud crackling noise.
- Polypropylene (PP) (symbol unknown) - this is flexible and durable, and can withstand high temperatures. It is naturally translucent but can have a glossy finish when coloured.
- Polystyrene (PS) (symbol unknown) - this is a clear and inflexible plastic with low impact and fair chemical resistance.
Other methods of identifying plastics include the float test and burn test, but these are not recommended as they are harmful to health and the environment, and are not always accurate.
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Sand the plastic surface
To join plastic to wood, you will need to sand the plastic surface lightly. Get a square of high-grit sandpaper and go over the broadest area of the plastic piece. Sanding the plastic will make it more porous and increase its overall surface area, allowing it to bond to the wood more easily.
Use only a few smooth, delicate strokes to avoid roughing up the plastic too much. Be careful not to damage the piece you are sanding. If there is a chance of damage, it may be better to skip this step.
The purpose of sanding the plastic surface is to help the glue stick to it better. You can use heavy-duty super glue, like Loctite or Gorilla Glue, or hot glue. You can also use an epoxy applicator kit, which comes with a resin and a hardener. Mix a little of each glue together with a toothpick, then apply a thin layer to the plastic and wood. Press the two surfaces together and leave to set for a couple of hours.
If you are working with porous wood, look for a gel-based super glue. Before gluing, clean the wooden piece with a damp cloth to remove dust and dirt that might interfere with the hold. Allow the wood to air dry, then wipe it down lightly with rubbing alcohol to remove excess dust and oils.
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Clean the wooden surface
To join plastic to wood, it is important to first clean the wooden surface to ensure a strong bond. Here are the steps you should follow:
Start by wiping down the wooden surface with a damp cloth to remove any dust or dirt. This initial wipe-down ensures that there is no loose debris that could interfere with the adhesion.
If you are working with oily wood, such as teak or Cocobolo, consider using acetone to wipe the wooden surface. Acetone is particularly effective for oily woods as it clears the contaminants from the wood's pores, ensuring a good bond. However, there is some controversy around this method, as some people report joint failures after using acetone. An alternative to acetone is to use a sharp scraper to lightly scrape away the surface oils and any other residue, creating a fresh bonding surface for the glue.
After removing any surface contaminants, use sandpaper to sand the wooden surface. Sanding creates a rougher surface, increasing the surface area available for the glue to adhere to. This step is especially important if you are using a glue that requires clamping, as it provides more area for the glue to grip.
Finally, give the wooden surface a final wipe with a damp cloth to remove any dust created during the sanding process. This ensures that the wooden surface is clean and ready for gluing.
By following these steps, you will effectively clean and prepare the wooden surface for joining with plastic, creating a strong and lasting bond.
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Epoxy glue
Gluing plastic to wood can be a challenging task due to the smooth and nonporous surface of plastic, which does not easily bond with adhesives. However, epoxy glue is one of the most effective methods for adhering plastic to wood and can be used for bonding smaller plastic pieces. Epoxy glue is a two-part system, consisting of a resin and a hardener, which need to be combined to form a strong adhesive.
To use epoxy glue, start by purchasing an epoxy applicator kit from a hardware store, art supply shop, or pharmacy. Before gluing, ensure that both the plastic and wood surfaces are clean. Once you have the kit, mix a small amount of the resin and hardener together on a disposable surface, such as a paper plate, using a toothpick or a similar utensil.
After mixing, apply a thin layer of the epoxy glue to either the wood or plastic surface, depending on what makes the most sense for your project. Then, press the two parts together firmly. Note that epoxy glue does not adhere well initially, but once it is completely dry, it will create a very strong and permanent bond. Depending on the type of epoxy, this can take between 10 to 24 hours. Always follow the instructions on the kit for the most accurate drying times.
It is important to note that epoxy glue is slightly toxic while it is drying, so be sure to use it in a well-ventilated area. Additionally, epoxy glue can be harder to work with than regular types of glue, so it may require more expertise for proper application. However, it is an excellent choice for gluing plastic to wood, especially when the type of plastic is unknown, as it will stick to almost every type of plastic and adhere well to all types of wood.
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Super glue
Super-hold glue, also known as cyanoacrylate glue, is one of the fastest and strongest ways to bond plastic to wood. It is a good choice for bonding plastic to wood because a little goes a long way.
Before gluing, test-fit the pieces to ensure they fit together tightly. Sand the plastic surface lightly with high-grit sandpaper to increase its surface area and allow it to bond more easily with the wood. Be careful not to rough up the plastic too much. If there is a risk of damaging the piece, skip this step.
Clean the wooden piece with a damp cloth to remove dust and dirt that may interfere with the glue's hold. Allow the wood to air dry, then wipe it down with rubbing alcohol to remove excess dust and oils.
Apply the super-hold glue to both surfaces. Control the flow of the glue by squeezing the tube slowly. Super glues are designed to be extra grippy, so only use a small amount. Depending on the size and shape of the surface, apply the glue in stripes, dots, or swirls. For small or irregularly shaped objects, try using a toothpick to apply the glue.
Work quickly with super-hold glue as it sets up in 5 to 60 seconds and cures hard in about two hours. If you need to separate the glued surfaces, use a hair dryer on a high-heat setting to melt the dried glue.
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Frequently asked questions
Epoxy glue is the best option as it works on almost every type of plastic and creates a very strong bond. You can also use hot glue, but it will not be as strong as epoxy and will melt if it gets too warm. Depending on the type of plastic, super glue can also be used, but it will not work on every type of plastic.
Epoxy is a two-compound mix that hardens into a resin plastic. Depending on the type of epoxy, you may need to mix it yourself or it will come in a double syringe that mixes as you apply it. Once you have mixed the epoxy, simply apply it to either the wood or the plastic and press both parts together. Make sure to use it in a well-ventilated area as it is slightly toxic until it is completely dry.
To prepare the plastic surface, lightly sand the broadest area with high-grit sandpaper to make it more porous and increase its surface area. This will allow it to bond to the wood more easily. You should only use a few smooth, delicate strokes to avoid damaging the plastic. To prepare the wooden surface, wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove any dust or dirt that might interfere with the glue bond.
