I have fragged a lot of SPS recently and so far have not lost a single frag during the fragging process.
I use the Maxicure super glue gel. It is very thick and easy to work with. It creates a strong bond usually on the first try. I picked it up from Chief Reef, but it can also be bought from Bulk Reef Supply as well as others.
My Process:
1. Soak plugs in a small container with just enough water to cover the frags. I prefer the disks for anything larger than 1", they are much easier to work with.
2. Cut SPS frags and place in a second container. I use the GFS containers usually. I try to avoid exposing them to air as much as possible.
3. Remove the plug/disc from the water and blot the surface dry where you plan to mount the frag.
4. Set the plug/disc on a level surface and apply a dime size amount of glue. I apply it slowly as I want it to mound up to about 3mm thick.
5. Let the glue stand for 60-90 seconds. I do not like to get the glue wet first as this creates a film that can make it harder to get good adhesion.
6. Grab the frag with the forceps and remove it from the first container. If I cannot hold it with forceps, I make sure I don't have any glue on my fingers.
7. Blot the end with a paper towel where it will be glued to remove any water/slime.
8. Place it on the mound of glue and gives it a slight twist to ensure the glue makes good contact.
9. Quickly place it under water sideways holding the plug/disc with your fingers and the frag with the forceps. Keep it stable until the glue cures enough to hold on its own, usually 60 seconds once the water hits the glue.
I usually leave it laying on it's side after this for 2-5 minutes before placing it back in the tank to ensure a strong bond.
I place it in a low flow area for the first 24 hours typically.
In the last two months I have fragged my ORA Blue Tort (4), Tri-color (4), Pearlberry acro (2), Monti spongodes (3), Unknown acro (4), unknown acro (1).
I am not sure how sensitive any of these are, but so far I have not lost any of them during the fragging process or within a week afterward. I lost one when it was stung by it's neighbor, but that was unrelated to the gluing process.
