You can freely build on How Super Glue Bonds Acidic Surfaces Like Wood

What this patent covers

This patent describes a chemical trick to make cyanoacrylate adhesives—commonly known as super glue—work on surfaces that are naturally acidic, such as wood. Normally, acidic surfaces prevent the glue from polymerizing, or hardening, effectively. By first applying an alkyl monohydric alcohol (a simple alcohol) to the wood surface, the inventor neutralizes the acidity or creates a favorable environment for the glue to set. The process involves moistening the wood with the alcohol and then applying the monomeric lower alkyl alpha-cyanoacrylate adhesive to form a strong bond.

What is now free to use

All 1 claims of US 2768109 are in the public domain. Specifically:

• Claim 2: THE METHOD OF STRONGLY BONDING WOOD HAVING AN ACIDIC SURFACE CHARACTER WHICH COMPRISES MOISTENING THE SURFACE OF THE WOOD TO BE BONDED WITH AN ALKYL MONOHYDRIC ALCOHOL OF 1-8 CARBON ATOMS, APPLYING AN ADHESIVE COMPOSITION — 1 specific element

The 0 dependent claims add narrowing limitations and are also free.

What is NOT covered

Patent expiry frees this specific invention. Separately-patented improvements made after expiry may still be protected.

• Does not cover the invention of cyanoacrylate adhesive itself.

• Does not cover bonding non-acidic surfaces that do not require an alcohol primer.

• Does not cover the use of alcohols with more than 8 carbon atoms.

• Does not cover adhesives that are not based on alpha-cyanoacrylate monomers.

Who is building on this today

Companies like Henkel (Loctite) and various chemical manufacturers continue to refine cyanoacrylate formulations. The core chemistry remains a staple in the adhesives industry, with modern versions often incorporating additives to handle a wider range of surface pH levels without needing a separate primer.

Products built on expired version of this technology

How to cite this patent in your documentation

Eastman Kodak Co. US Patent 2768109. Alcohol-catalyzed alpha-cyanoacrylate adhesive compositions. Granted 1956, expired 1974. Now in the public domain.

Note: This is a convenience citation. Consult a patent attorney for formal freedom-to-operate analysis.

PatentBrief is an educational resource and does not provide legal advice. Patent expiration information is derived from USPTO records and may not reflect continuation patents, divisional filings, or separately-patented improvements. For commercial use or production decisions, obtain a formal freedom-to-operate (FTO) opinion from a registered patent attorney.