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Superglue

Ever wonder how superglue works? Find out on this Moment of Science.

Ever wonder how superglue works?

Cyanoacrylate. It’s a sticky substance called a resin. When its molecules come into contact with water molecules on skin, or any other surface, they begin to form chains that lash around and create a really strong, durable plastic weave.

Chains of molecules keep getting added into the mesh until the structure is so thick and hard that the chains can’t move anymore. Anything stuck to the mesh is usually stuck for good.

Besides fixing coffee cups and larger things, a special type of superglue can be used to close wounds instead of stitches. If you ever get caught in superglue, nail polish remover should help dissolve the sticky substance.

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