ARALDITE® 2031-1 A/B

• Pretreatment The strength and durability of a bonded joint are dependent on proper treatment of the surfaces to be bonded. At the very least, joint surfaces should be cleaned with a good degreasing agent such as acetone, isopropanol (for plastics) or other proprietary degreasing agents in order to remove all traces of oil, grease and dirt. Low grade alcohol, gasoline (petrol) or paint thinners should never be used. The strongest and most durable joints are obtained by either mechanically abrading or chemically etching (“pickling”) the degreased surfaces. Abrading should be followed by a second degreasing treatment.

• The resin and hardener should be blended until they form a homogeneous mix. ARALDITE® 2031-1 is also available in cartridges incorporating mixers and can be applied as ready to use adhesive with the aid of the tool recommended by Huntsman Advanced Materials
• Application of adhesive The resin/hardener mix is applied with a spatula, to the pretreated and dry joint surfaces. A layer of adhesive 0.05 to 0.10 mm thick will normally impart the greatest lap shear strength to the joint. The adhesive contains spacer to ensure a minimum bond line thickness of 0.05 mm. The joint components should be assembled and clamped as soon as the adhesive has been applied. An even contact pressure throughout the joint area will ensure optimum cure.
• Mechanical Processing Specialist firms have developed metering, mixing and spreading equipment that enables the bulk processing of adhesive. We will be pleased to advise customers on the choice of equipment for their particular needs.
• Equipment Maintenance All tools should be cleaned before adhesives residues have had time to cure. The removal of cured residues is a difficult and time-consuming operation. If solvents such as acetone are used for cleaning, operatives should take the appropriate precautions and, in addition, avoid skin and eye contact.

Cure times to reach minimum shear strength

• ARALDITE® 2031-1 structural adhesive should be stored in a dry place, in the original sealed containers, at temperatures between 2 - 40°C (36°F and 104°F).
• Under these storage conditions, the product has a shelf life of 3 years (from date of manufacture).
• The expiry date is indicated on the label.
• The product should not be exposed to direct sunlight. If stored below 60°F, the adhesive should be brought to 60°F - 77°F and conditioned at this temperature for some time prior to use.