{"id":3152,"date":"2020-04-22T17:38:12","date_gmt":"2020-04-22T22:38:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/zoneenterprisesusa.com\/tapesandadhesives\/?page_id=3152"},"modified":"2022-10-06T20:13:46","modified_gmt":"2022-10-07T01:13:46","slug":"surface-preparation-to-ensure-a-successful-bond","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/zoneenterprisesusa.com\/tapesandadhesives\/resources\/surface-preparation-to-ensure-a-successful-bond\/","title":{"rendered":"Surface Preparation to Ensure a Successful Bond"},"content":{"rendered":"
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The best way to ensure a strong bond is with proper surface preparation. Why? No matter how robust your adhesive is, or how well-suited it is to your application, dust, grease or other debris on the bonding surfaces will interfere with the adhesive\u2019s ability to do its job. Adequate surface preparation assures the cleanest contact and ultimately the strongest bond.<\/p>\n

Start with a Surface Scrub<\/h2>\n

In the majority of situations, a good scrub with a 50:50 mixture of isopropyl alcohol (IPA) and water will do the job. The alcohol will dissolve light grease and water will get rid of dirt and accumulated dust. Make sure the surface is thoroughly dry before applying the adhesive tape. Try not to touch the cleaned surface as finger oils and other contaminants may affect the bond.\n<\/p><\/div>\n

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When Additional Surface Prep is Needed<\/h2>\n

While the IPA\/water mixture is sufficient in the majority of cases, there are exceptions. For these challenging applications extra surface preparation can help assure a successful bond. Additional bonding surface preparation steps may include:<\/p>\n

Remove Heavy Oils<\/h3>\n

Using a degreaser or solvent-based cleaner may be required for some surface prep. 3M\u2122 Prep Solvent 70, 3M\u2122 Citrus Base Cleaner, mineral spirits, naphtha or similar solvents will cut the heavier-weight oils. Follow up with the IPA\/water mixture until the oil is gone.<\/p>\n

Abrade the Surface<\/h3>\n

Roughing up the surface (i.e. sanding) will loosen up any accumulated dirt, rust, or chipped paint and aid in the adhesion to painted surfaces or plastic items. A finely-abraded surface with shallow scratches created by a circular motion (rather than straight lines) has the best potential for a strong and persistent bond. This method can create up to a 40% increase in surface area and can result in greater immediate and long-term bonding potential.<\/p>\n

Depending on the level of abrasion needed, the following can be used:<\/p>\n