Durable adhesive bonds between metal to metal, metal to composites can be obtained reliably only through proper selection and careful control of the materials used and the steps in the bonding process. The preparation of the metallic substrates to obtain surfaces with appropriate characteristics is a critical step. Improper surface preparation can produce seemingly acceptable bonds that can degrade rapidly with time. This guide describes one method on how to properly prepare aluminum surfaces can be obtained.

The formation of reproducible, durable, adhesive bonds in structural assemblies requires great care in the selection of materials, the preparation of the surfaces of the components to be bonded, the fit of the components, and the performance of the steps in the bonding process. Experience has shown that when adhesively bonded aluminum surfaces which have been prepared in accordance with this guide produce relatively reproducible, durable bonds.

1.1 This guide describes the requirements for phosphoric acid anodizing of aluminum and its alloys for structural adhesive bonding.

1.2 The procedure included herein is based on the commercial practice of numerous agencies and organizations. The method may be revised or supplemented, as necessary, to include methods based on proven performance.

1.3 The surface preparation of metal systems used for qualification and quality-control testing of the adhesive should be agreed upon between the manufacturer and the user.

1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. A specific precaution is given in 5.5.