Application of organosilanes in the preparation of metal surfaces for adhesive bonding.

This paper deals with research into the influence of surface preparation before adhesive bonding of galvanised and non-galvanised steel substrates. The steel substrates were experimentally treated with chromate-free zirconate passivation, iron phosphate, zinc phosphate and an experimental organosilane-based preparation. The roughness of the treated substrates was evaluated by a set of selected vertical and horizontal parameters. The corrosion rate of the treated substrates was tested by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and linear polarisation. Single-lap joints were created using one-component epoxy/PVC-polymerblend adhesive with glass beads, to ensure an evenly glued gap. The joints were tested for shear strength by tension, in accordance with STN EN 1465 in the as-bonded state, as well as after the climatic cyclic test PV1200. The results show that the adhesive used had a higher adhesion to galvanised substrates with a specific morphology. Adhesion to non-galvanised substrates has been significantly improved by using organosilane for surface preparation. The organosilane layer, containing epoxy organic functional groups, was incorporated into the organic binder of the adhesive and showed increased bond strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]