Article

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

Finding the right sealant quick and easy?

SABA’s product selection tool makes it quick and easy for you to find the right product. In just three simple steps, we give you accurate advice for your application.

Go to product selection tool

Learn more now


Media file url
Media file title

Media file Saba email addresses
First name
Last name
Company name
Your email address
Telephone number
I agree with the follow up email
Register for newsletter
Security code


Media file url
Media file title

Media file Saba email addresses
First name
Last name
Company name
Your email address
Telephone number
I agree with the follow up email
Register for newsletter
Security code


Media file url
Media file title

Media file Saba email addresses
First name
Last name
Company name
Your email address
Telephone number
I agree with the follow up email
Register for newsletter
Security code


Media file url
Media file title

Media file Saba email addresses
First name
Last name
Company name
Your email address
Telephone number
I agree with the follow up email
Register for newsletter
Security code


Media file url
Media file title

Media file Saba email addresses
First name
Last name
Company name
Your email address
Telephone number
I agree with the follow up email
Register for newsletter
Security code

What is the difference between an activator and a primer?

Polypropylene (PP) bonding: how it’s done