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What is Rubber Cement?
Dana Hinders
Dana Hinders
Rubber cement is a versatile adhesive made from latex polymers mixed in acetone or other solvents. Paul Van Cleef invented the adhesive for use in the Van Cleef Brothers factory in Chicago, Illinois in the early 1900s.
Most brands available for purchase today have the same basic formula, although many manufacturers made slight adjustments after learning that the benzene in rubber cement could be linked to the development of certain cancers. Today, n-hexane and n-heptane are commonly used as less toxic alternatives to benzene.
Rubber cement is inexpensive and easy to use. A permanent bond can be created by applying it to both the top and bottom surfaces, while a re-positionable bond is created by applying the adhesive to only one surface. In addition, excess adhesive can be peeled or rubbed off without wrinkling or damaging the paper or other items being glued together. This makes it the perfect choice for card making and collage crafts.
At one time, rubber cement was commonly used in scrapbooking. However, today’s crafters have mostly abandoned this practice due to concerns that the acidity of the adhesive may damage photos and memorabilia. If you are interested in creating a scrapbook, use an acid-free archival quality glue stick instead.
Rubber cement may stain some fabrics and upholstery. However, you can remove these stains by sponging the spot with a small amount of dry cleaning solvent followed by a mixture of lukewarm water and a mild pH balanced detergent. Flush the area with clean water and allow to air dry.
As a safety precaution, rubber cement should always be used in a well-ventilated area. Avoid contact with open flames and never allow children to use it without adult supervision. If the glue accidentally comes in contact with your eyes, flush with water for at least 15 minutes. If you suspect the chemical has been swallowed, call Poison Control immediately. Do not attempt to induce vomiting without first seeking medical advice.
In recent years, teenagers have discovered that rubber cement has the potential for abuse as an inhalant. When the fumes are inhaled on a regular basis, they produce effects that are similar to the result of alcohol consumption. However, the effects of huffing or sniffing this glue can include brain damage, cardiac arrest, dizziness, hallucinations, and serious heart or lung problems. Rubber cement also contains a variety of poisonous ingredients, including paradichlorobenzene, trichloroethane, acetone, heptane, and isopropyl alcohol.
Dana Hinders
Dana holds a B.A. in journalism and mass communication from the University of Iowa. She has loved being part of the HomeQuestionsAnswered team ever since discovering the joys of freelance writing after her son was born. Dana also hones her writing skills by contributing articles to various blogs, as well as creating sales copy and content for e-courses.
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Dana Hinders
Dana holds a B.A. in journalism and mass communication from the University of Iowa. She has loved being part of the HomeQuestionsAnswered team ever since discovering the joys of freelance writing after her son was born. Dana also hones her writing skills by contributing articles to various blogs, as well as creating sales copy and content for e-courses.
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![Rubber cement was once used to create scrapbooks, but its acidity can damage photographs.]()
By: SilviuFlorinRubber cement was once used to create scrapbooks, but its acidity can damage photographs. -
![Regular exposure to rubber cement fumes can cause dizziness and hallucinations.]()
By: elizalebedewaRegular exposure to rubber cement fumes can cause dizziness and hallucinations. -
![Teenagers have discovered that using rubber cement as an inhalant has similar effects to alcohol consumption.]()
By: Joshua ResnickTeenagers have discovered that using rubber cement as an inhalant has similar effects to alcohol consumption.
Discussion Comments
I think your advice not to use rubber cement in scrapbooking is wrong. It says right on the jar of Elmer's that it is acid-free.
Take the warning given here VERY very seriously: "As a safety precaution, rubber cement should always be used in a well-ventilated area."
I did not read the directions the first time I used rubber cement and I ended up feeling uncomfortably weird (high) for about five minutes. That was disconcerting but the severe headache I suffered for the next twelve hours (or so) is something that I will never forget.
Is rubber cement waterproof, because I want to make a mermaid tail out of it.
How do you get rubber cement out of your nylon jacket?
rubber cement stuck to front of framed art work. how can I get it off the glass?
how should I formulate strong rubber cement for use in furniture making?
i work at a mall and right above me they are laying down a carpet or floor with cement glue the odor is awful. It's making me dizzy and my stomach hurts what do you advise?
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