Non-Toxic Glue?

by Jim Kautz
(Virginia Beach, VA)

Looking for a Glue that would not harm the boat builder who has a lung or breathing problem.

The Dr says no boat building because of the vapors from the glue.

Do you have any suggestions for waterproofing a model boat for my neighbor and friend?

Jim

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Non-Toxic Glue?

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Feb 11, 2011

Purbond?
by: Rob

Perhaps "purbond", I dont remember it being too vapourish, but it has been 5 years since Ive used it"

Feb 11, 2011

Solvent Free
by: Mike

Hi Jim,

I sympathize with you and your health problem.

Wooden boats used to be put together with nails and wooden pegs, (treenails) some sewn together with natural fibers and caulked with animal fats.

And natural tree resins and the like were used as glues.

I'm not an industrial chemist or a medical man but I suspect that your doctor is possibly warning against the solvents that are present in most modern glues.

I have seen news about a new 'Soy-Based' wood adhesive which is formaldehyde free but it doesn't appear to be available to the general public yet.

Would you be OK with and old fashioned Hide Glue?

They do smell a bit when you heat them, I'm not sure if that would be regarded as toxic.

"Titebond" sell a Liquid Hide Glue but I suspect that it must use a solvent of some sort.

"Titebond III" is a waterproof glue that is advertised as being non-toxic and solvent free but it is a polyurethane-based adhesive.

The alternative might be to use a respirator.

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