Article

What is the difference between an activator and a primer?

When bonding materials, proper surface preparation is crucial for a durable and reliable bond. Two commonly used pre-treatment agents are primers and activators. Although at first glance they appear to have similar functions, they differ significantly in composition, operation and scope of application. We will be happy to help you determine which solution is most suitable for your specific application.

Author Jan-Willem Tebeest – Application Manager Application manager

Primer: optimal adhesion

A primer is a specialised adhesion enhancer, which is applied to difficult to bond surfaces. Unlike an activator, a primer contains a higher proportion of solids. These solids fill micro-pores and smooth out surface irregularities, significantly increasing the effective bonding surface. This results in a stronger, more durable bond between adhesive and substrate.

Primers form a thin film on the surface that enhances the adhesive properties of the adhesive and increases the reliability of the bond, even under severe conditions such as vibration, moisture or temperature fluctuations.

The primer is applied using a clean, lint-free cloth, a primer ball, melamine foam or a suitable brush. It is essential that the surface is dimensionally stable, dry, clean and free of grease, oil, dust and loose particles before application. The use of a cleaner prior to applying the primer is highly recommended.

Watch our tutorial video on the best way to apply primer.

Activator: a quick and efficient one-step pre-treatment

An activator is a multi-purpose liquid specially designed for the quick and easy pre-treatment of lightly soiled, non-porous surfaces. It combines three functions in one product: cleaning, degreasing and improving adhesion. Activators are usually transparent and colorless, and in most cases leave no visible residue after evaporation.

In contrast to a primer, an activator also provides a mild cleaning action. This makes activators particularly suitable for applications requiring speed and process reliability, such as in industrial production environments.

An activator is applied using a clean, lint-free cloth and always in one direction, to effectively remove contaminants and ensure even activation. After a short drying time, the surface is ready for bonding using, for example, a product from the Sabatack® line.

In the tutorial video, our application specialist shows what this looks like in practice.

Tailored advice for your adhesive process

Whether you work with an activator for fast, efficient pre-treatment or need a primer for maximum adhesion on complex surfaces, the right choice depends on your specific application, material and process conditions. Would you like to be certain which pre-treatment method is most suitable for your situation? Contact one of our technical specialists. We will be happy to collaborate with you and offer a tailor-made solution based on years of experience and extensive test data.

Our MS polymer adhesives generally have a broad adhesion profile, which means that a primer or activator is often not required.

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