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What is the difference between an activator and a primer?

In practice, activators and primers have different functions. Michel Menting, our Technical Product Manager Transportation and European Adhesive Engineer (EAE), explains why in this blog.

Activator - ‘activates’

An activator is a transparent, colorless liquid that is also a cleaning agent, degreaser and adhesion promoter.

With an activator, you can quickly and simply pre-treat a moderately contaminated substrate in just one step. A process-secure bond or seal can then be realized with one of the products, such as those from the Sabatack® range.
 
An activator should be applied with a clean, lint-free (paper) cloth you rub in one direction.

In the instruction video, our application specialist shows how this is done in practice.

WATCH THE INSTRUCTION VIDEO
Primer - ‘creates larger bonding surface’

A primer is also an adhesion promoter, but with a higher solid content. This evens out pores and irregularities and creates a larger bonding surface, which leads to a better (or stronger) bond.
 
A primer can be applied with, for example, a clean, lint-free (paper) cloth, a primer applicator, melamine foam or a brush.

Watch our instruction video to see the best way to apply a primer.

WATCH THE INSTRUCTION VIDEO
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