Composite Surface Preparation and Primers for Aerospace and Advanced Manufacturing
GracoRoberts supplies surface preparation products and bonding primers for composite manufacturing and assembly. Proper pre-bond surface preparation is one of the most critical factors in achieving consistent, qualified bond performance in composite structures.
Our portfolio includes pre-bond cleaners, structural adhesive primers, corrosion-inhibiting primers for composite-to-metal interfaces, and surface treatment products from leading aerospace manufacturers. We support the full surface preparation workflow from initial cleaning through primer application and bond-ready confirmation.
Types of Composite Surface Preparation Products
Applications and Measurable Benefits
Manufacturing Methods and Material Readiness
Surface preparation products are available in formats suited to both production and field application, including aerosol, brush, and bulk container formats. Application method, drying time, and compatibility with downstream adhesive systems should all be confirmed at the material selection stage.
We provide data sheet review and process guidance to ensure surface preparation steps are correctly sequenced and compatible with your bonding or coating system. For structural bonding applications, we recommend confirming primer-adhesive compatibility before qualification testing.
Certification, Documentation, and Traceability
We support qualification workflows for composite surface preparation products, including lot traceability, shelf life management, and certificates on request. Many structural adhesive primers in our portfolio are qualified to Boeing BMS, Airbus AIMS, and US military specifications.
What we provide:
- Certificates, COA and COC, on request
- Lot traceability and shelf life management
- Data sheets, storage and handling guidance
- Approved sourcing aligned to program specs
Need help selecting surface preparation products for your composite assembly process? Talk to our team about solutions aligned to your specification and documentation requirements.
Surface Prep and Primers FAQs
What surface preparation is required before bonding composite structures?
The required steps depend on the substrate, adhesive system, and program specification. Typically this involves solvent cleaning to remove contamination, mechanical abrasion or peel ply removal to expose a fresh surface, and application of a structural adhesive primer where specified. Our team can advise on the correct sequence for your application.
Do I need a primer before using a structural film adhesive on composites?
Many structural film adhesive systems recommend or require a compatible adhesive primer to achieve full bond performance and meet qualification requirements. Confirm primer requirements in the adhesive product data sheet or contact us for guidance.
Do you supply chromate-free primers for composite applications?
Yes. We supply both chromate and chromate-free primer options qualified to relevant aerospace specifications. Chromate-free alternatives are available where environmental or regulatory requirements preclude the use of chromate-based products.
Can you advise on primer and adhesive compatibility?
Yes. Our team can review your adhesive system, substrate type, and program specification to recommend compatible surface preparation products and confirm process sequencing. Contact us to discuss your application.