What is a plastic glue for scale models?

Plastic cement, also known as plastic glue, is a type of welding adhesive for plastics specifically designed to be the strongest adhesive bonding and joining materials together used in most scale model kits, gundam robots as well as most kits manufactured by Games Workshop, and other companies in the wargames world. It is also commonly used in various industries, including model-making, construction, and even plumbing.

Plastic cement is technically a solvent, rather than a modeling glue, and it comes in a liquid form and is applied to the surfaces to be bonded. The adhesive works by chemically melting the material, creating a strong bond as the melted parts fuse together. This process mimics the fusion that occurs during traditional welding processes.

They will be perfect for scale models made of Plasticard or polystyrene or ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) materials, Styrene, and HIPS, and they offer several advantages, such as:

• Strong bond: It creates a durable and reliable bond between surfaces, ensuring they stay securely attached.
• Seamless finish: The chemical melting action allows for a seamless connection between parts, eliminating visible seams or gaps.
• Compatibility: It is formulated to work specifically with ABS, Styrene, and uPVC among others, providing optimal adhesion and minimizing the risk of damaging the material.
• Quick drying: It typically dries relatively quickly, allowing for efficient assembly and reducing the need for extended curing times.

It is important to note that plastic cement is a strong solvent and it should be used in a well-ventilated area due to the release of fumes during the bonding process. 

What is the best glue for plastic​?

The best glue for plastic depends on the specific type of material you are working with and the intended use of the bonded items. Here are some commonly recommended options:

1. Cyanoacrylate Glue: it is a versatile and widely available option for bonding almost everything. It forms a strong and fast bond, but it can be brittle, so it may not be ideal for applications that require flexibility.
2. Epoxy Resin: Epoxy is a popular adhesive due to its strong and durable bond. It works well with a variety of materials and provides excellent structural strength. Epoxy resin is a two-part product that requires mixing before application.
3. Polyurethane Adhesive: It is known for its flexibility and versatility. It can bond with different types of plastics, including those that are difficult to bond with other options. It provides a strong bond and has good resistance to moisture.
4. Solvent-Based Adhesives - Skullglue: It works by chemically melting the surfaces, creating a strong bond. Solvent-based adhesives, such as acetone or MEK (methyl ethyl ketone), can be effective for bonding certain types of plastics. These adhesives also work by dissolving the surfaces, allowing them to fuse together when the solvent evaporates.

It's important to note that the best glue for plastic can vary depending on the specific material type and the application. It's always a good idea to test on a small, inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire project. 

For certain materials like polyethylene or polypropylene, which resist most adhesives, alternatives like cyanoacrylate or epoxy resin might be necessary. However, these alternatives lack the seamless welding effect, making them less ideal for most scale model applications.

What is the strongest glue to use on plastic​? 

The strongest glue for plastic is the cement glue, which works by chemically melting the surfaces to bond them together. This process, known as solvent welding, creates a seamless and exceptionally strong bond, as the pieces fuse at a molecular level. Unlike other adhesives that simply stick to the surface, this one penetrates the surface, forming a solid, unified material that is highly durable and resistant to stress and environmental factors.

Green Stuff World offers a range of high-quality adhesives specifically designed for use with various types of materials. Our products are particularly effective for modeling and craft applications, as they provide a strong, permanent bond by chemically melting surfaces. This makes it ideal for model building, repairs, and other applications where a robust bond is essential.

How to glue plastic together​?

1. Clean the Surface: Thoroughly clean both surfaces with soap and water or a specialized cleaner. This removes any dirt, grease, or oils that could prevent the adhesive from sticking properly. Dry the surfaces completely before proceeding.
2. Roughen the Surface: Lightly sand the areas using fine-grit sandpaper. This creates a slightly rough texture, improving the adhesive’s ability to bond with the material.
3. Apply it Precisely: Use a small paintbrush, the tip of a needle, or the precision applicator that comes with your adhesive to apply a thin, even layer to the surfaces. This ensures better control and prevents excesses from spilling over.
4. Seal Pieces Tightly: Align the pieces carefully and press them together. Use clamps, tape, or elastic bands to hold the parts firmly in place while it dries. This pressure ensures a stronger bond by eliminating gaps and air pockets.
5. Cleanup: Immediately wipe away any excess product that squeezes out from the seam using a clean cloth or paper towel. If it has dried, you might need a scraper or acetone to clean it up, depending on the type of adhesive used.

Additionally, beyond traditional scale modeling, plastic glue proves invaluable for light household repairs. From reattaching plastic trim on broken toys or décor, this solvent‑based plastic glue offers strong, lasting bonds. Its gap‑filling properties ensure that small cracks and voids are neatly sealed, resulting in a clean, professional finish that often renders the repair virtually invisible.

In creative projects such as building dioramas or customizing scale vehicles, plastic glue excels by providing a balanced working time. Modelers appreciate that this plastic glue remains malleable long enough to reposition parts precisely, yet cures quickly enough to keep assembly moving forward. This characteristic makes it an indispensable tool when fine adjustments and rapid progress are both priorities on your next modeling build.

Finally, proper safety and storage practices are essential when using plastic glue. Given its potent fumes, always work in a well‑ventilated area and consider wearing gloves and eye protection. After use, seal the bottle tightly to prevent solvent evaporation and extend the adhesive’s shelf life. With these precautions, you can continue to rely on plastic glue for countless future projects without worry.