How does one apply MEK "glue" to bricks?

[badbob001]

I want to repair some cracked or separated bricks so I bought a can of MEK (my can, named weld-on c-65 cleaner, contains acetone + methyl ethyl ketone + cyclohexanone), but how do I actually apply it? I thought I could use things like toothpicks or cotton swabs. But to be safe, I searched for some info.

I saw a video on using acetone to glue acrylics and they said a cotton swab will not work since it'll dry before one can apply the two pieces together. My can of MEK also has acetone so will the same problem still happen? The video says to use a needle syringe, which I don't have on hand (I do have some baby medicine syringes but they don't have a needle). Does putting MEK into a syringe essentially ruin the syringe and make it a one-time use item?

How about something silly like inserting cocktail straw into the can and holding my thumb over one end to keep the MEK in the straw before application?

[Faefrost]

I want to repair some cracked or separated bricks so I bought a can of MEK (my can, named weld-on c-65 cleaner, contains acetone + methyl ethyl ketone + cyclohexanone), but how do I actually apply it? I thought I could use things like toothpicks or cotton swabs. But to be safe, I searched for some info.

I saw a video on using acetone to glue acrylics and they said a cotton swab will not work since it'll dry before one can apply the two pieces together. My can of MEK also has acetone so will the same problem still happen? The video says to use a needle syringe, which I don't have on hand (I do have some baby medicine syringes but they don't have a needle). Does putting MEK into a syringe essentially ruin the syringe and make it a one-time use item?

How about something silly like inserting cocktail straw into the can and holding my thumb over one end to keep the MEK in the straw before application?

A small model type paintbrush works well (natural fiber only, no plastic brushes). They also make special applicator tools that are essentially a needle in a tube, that work as you describe via capillary action. But they are more costly than you would need for Lego.

[Modelmaker]

Yes, a small wooden handled natural fiber brush is the best thing to use. The syringe may be made from a similar plastic so will be ruined in one use. Also don't breath in the fumes MEK is also known as chloroform, we go through 2 liters of the stuff a week in work

Edited August 19, 2014 by Modelmaker

[Gorelaxx]

Also don't breath in the fumes MEK is also known as chloroform

No it's not chloroform, although I wouldn't recommend inhaling it. You have to be very careful with sources of ignition though as it is very flammable.

[Saint]

Perhaps I got the "solution" you need.

http://www.bricklink.com/store.asp?p=greenman .... This store has the glue you need, thin as water, and comes in a small bottle. You only need to apply ( and there is the problem ) with a small seringe and needle... Years ago I had some model glue from Faller, a german model brand for trains. that had a needle-like tube.

Never found it in store's anymore though.

Hope this helps a bit.

Grtz Saint

[badbob001]

A small model type paintbrush works well (natural fiber only, no plastic brushes).

Thanks for the tip.

[klinton]

Did...did the Lego Movie mean nothing to you? Hahaha.

Poor, poor Kragled Lego pieces. :p

[badbob001]

Did...did the Lego Movie mean nothing to you? Hahaha.

Poor, poor Kragled Lego pieces. :p

I'm only repairing broken pieces, namely the clip on the motorcycle, the clip on some duplo wheel base, and broken plant parts. Not sure if cracked cheese slopes and headlight bricks can be repaired.