The Hidden Danger: Why Nail Glue Could Scorch Your Carpet! Nail glue and super glue can burn carpet because they contain cyanoacrylate, a fast-acting adhesive that hardens when it comes into contact with moisture. Carpets are often made of synthetic fibers such as nylon or polyester, which can trigger a strong chemical reaction with cyanoacrylate. This reaction is exothermic, meaning it releases heat. If enough glue soaks into the fibers, the heat generated can be intense enough to scorch, melt,