I am finding it difficult to source Super Glue Accelerator, and wonder whether there is an alternative way of ensuring a rapid set to the adhesive. I have heard that a small amount of talcum powder applied over the glue will work, or possibly a light spray of water …
I’ve NOT tried this but it might be worth testing on scrap if you need CA Accelerator and none is available.
Mix 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda into 1/4 cup of purified water. Brush it onto the “dry” half of the joint. The soda will neutralize the acid in CA glue, which is there to slow the curing time. At this ratio, your homemade accelerator will still give you several seconds of open time to align the parts.
If you want an immediate cure, increase the soda to 1 teaspoon instead. After trying this on many sample joints made of poplar, I’ve noticed no loss of bond strength, plus it’s odor-free and doesn’t stain the wood.
My first CA accelerator was backing soda and water in a nasal medicine container(a small glas bottle with pump to spray the medicine into your nostrils).I used it very often and still use it from time to time for area application.
I agree about the powder but wonder about its use on model kits. Of course the fastest CA accelerator on the planet is my fingers - just ask me how I know!
Breathe out onto the glued joint, particularly if you do this deeply with your mouth open. Cyanoacrylate sets by the influence of water, and the moisture in your breath will help it along fairly well.