Does high humidity affect common acrylic adhesives used in the horse industry?
High humidity itself will not affect the cure or the properties BUT there are a couple of things to remember when you use the acrylic adhesive for hoof repair or to glue on horseshoes in warm weather:
- High humidity during cure will cause the cured surface of the glue to become more “tacky” or sticky. This can be minimized by covering the surface with a plastic film such as stretch wrap or “saran” wrap while the acrylic adhesive “fixtures” (stiffens) & cures.
- High humidity is generally associated with higher ambient temperatures. In these conditions, higher glue temperatures will accelerate the cure. The normal cures are generally stated for adhesive at 70°F & ambient conditions about the same (lovely weather that is infrequently encountered by many farriers). If the glue is 20°F warmer (say 90°F), the cure time will be halved.
- High humidity can also signal that the hoof may be wet as the grass is dew soaked in the early morning. It is best to apply adhesives to dry surfaces. A little time spent preparing the hoof will assure a good adhesive bond.
- Farriers who frequently use common acrylic adhesives are familiar with the issues surrounding the glue and climate conditions. Many farriers will store and carry their adhesives in an insulated container during both summer (with a cold pack) and winter. In addition farriers familiar with the acrylic adhesives may choose a fast set or a slow set acrylic during different seasons.
