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Loctite Superglue - fish safe?

Liam75^

Seedling
Joined
15 Oct 2020
Messages
11
Location
London
Are these Loctite superglues safe for use in aquascaping?
I've found some contradictory answers, with some people saying no and others saying they've used them with no bother.

Specifically, these two types in the photo below.
There's no warning about aquatic/marine life on them that I can see, and I can't find any manufacturer's technical data on them either.

Loctites.jpg


Thanks.
 
All cyanacrylate (super glue)should be safe once cured, see wikipedia entry below. Check contents of yours for no additives. Unlikely to have anything extra in, unless a UV cure type adhesive.

Toxicity. The fumes from cyanoacrylate are a vaporized form of the cyanoacrylate monomer that irritate the sensitive mucous membranes of the respiratory tract (i.e., eyes, nose, throat, and lungs). They are immediately polymerized by the moisture in the membranes and become inert.
 
All cyanacrylate (super glue)should be safe once cured
Thanks. Haven't used superglue for aquascaping before.

What does "cured" mean in practice? I've prepared some rockwork that's been ready for days, it's presumably cured by now.
But if I'm attaching plants to rocks to place in the tank, how long do I need to wait for it to cure?
Do I spray it while I'm waiting?
 
Moisture will help cure, it should be pretty instant, unless the glue is isolated from the moisture in the air. A little spray would help ensure it is cured, belt and braces. I'd say it should be fine after days!
 
Thanks. Haven't used superglue for aquascaping before.

What does "cured" mean in practice? I've prepared some rockwork that's been ready for days, it's presumably cured by now.
But if I'm attaching plants to rocks to place in the tank, how long do I need to wait for it to cure?
Do I spray it while I'm waiting?

I wouldn't be worried about cure times. I and many others use superglue in running tanks (i.e attaching a plant underwater in the tank with fish etc) with no problems. In the presence of water, it will set almost instantly.
 
And yet despite most people having no issues with various “super glues” there are consistent (occasional) reports of livestock death, plant melt associated with the use ... so it’s something to be aware of
eg, if plant purchases have stretched your budget, use non-glue methods to attach; if you’re planning high quality costly shrimp, skip the glue ... and so on :)
 
Theres also instances of grazers like catfish getting tangled up and caught in thread tied plants and moss. ADA moss cotton quickly bio degrades but expensive so back to price again. If in doubt stick (sorry) to glues from aquarium reputable manufacturers. I have never had a issue with superglues though
 
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