Which adhesive should not be used on rubber (or elastic) shock cord components?

Which adhesive should not be used on rubber (or elastic) shock cord components?

• A. Slow-curing epoxy adhesives
• B. Cyanoacrylate glues (super glue)
• C. Aliphatic resin-based (yellow) glues
• D. White "Elmer's" glue

Answer: (B)

Rubber shock cords need an adhesive that preserves the rubber’s elasticity rather than attacking it. Cyanoacrylate glues react with natural rubber and can cause the rubber to craze, crack, or become brittle at the bonded area. That loss of flexibility leads to joint failure when the cord is stretched during flight. Other glues may not bond as well or may be too stiff, but the crucial issue with super glue is its damaging effect on rubber.

Rubber shock cords need an adhesive that preserves the rubber’s elasticity rather than attacking it. Cyanoacrylate glues react with natural rubber and can cause the rubber to craze, crack, or become brittle at the bonded area. That loss of flexibility leads to joint failure when the cord is stretched during flight. Other glues may not bond as well or may be too stiff, but the crucial issue with super glue is its damaging effect on rubber.