Conclusion to Analysis of Cyanoacrylate Products

Analysis of cyanoacrylate adhesives was carried out using both non-destructive and destructive techniques in order to study the effect of method selection. Non-destructive methods involved dissolving the cyanoacrylate adhesive in a solvent that is compatible with the sample and the plasma torch of the ICP-OES. A suitable solvent that meets these criteria is glacial acetic acid mixed with propylene carbonate and it also reduces the strong odour effect in the laboratory environment. 

With certain exceptions, cyanoacrylate monomer formulations containing additives e.g. rubbers, high-density neutral resins, silicon dioxide, etc., may hinder accurate and precise analysis using dilution methods. In such cases it may be necessary to prepare samples using destructive techniques, particularly where the levels are very low. Solvent selection for dilution of cyanoacrylate adhesive must be compatible for the entire journey of the sample solution from sample vessel to torch. Failure to do this could cause the cyanoacrylate to polymerise locally and block the entire sample transport system in ICP-OES and can cause serious damage requiring expensive replacements. The solvents suggested in the above dilution methods were found to be satisfactory. 

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