The authoritative public forum
  for Metal Finishing since 1989
-----

Auto accessories supplier wants adhesive for anodized parts

2003

1.) Which adhesive will bond to an anodized part?

2.) Will a black anodized part maintain its appearance in a sunny weather exposed environment?

Please be specific in your answers.

Regards,

Dennis Lee
Automotive Accessories - Mesquite, Texas

Only specific questions can receive specific answers, Dennis :-)

letter 4379 discusses adhesive bonding on phosphoric acid anodizing, which is used in aircraft structures. This may be overkill for your application. letter 871 discusses the general problem of bonding anodized aluminum and a less rigorous technique that may be appropriate for your needs.

As a general rule, black anodized coatings are not a great choice for color stability because true blacks rely on organic dyes. The bronze (tan, brown) colors you see on lamp posts and buildings are generally better because they do not rely on dyes. However, it is probably possible to get an 'almost' black inorganic coating and then overdye it to a true black, and get sufficient stability for your requirements. Hopefully a supplier can reference an application on auto accessories that you can compare to your needs.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
2003