Surface Chemical Study of Sheet Molded Composite (SMC) as Related to Adhesion

Abstract Surfaces of commercial sheet molded composite (SMC) materials have been characterized by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) before and after various surface treatments. Surface treatments included cleaning with methylene chloride, abrasion using methylene chloride and a Scotch Brite ® abrasive pad, and application of an isocyanate primer. The pretreated SMC materials were bonded using a polyurethane adhesive. Bonded coupons were tested under a variety of conditions using the lap shear technique. Lap shear test results for specimens bonded following the abrasion and primer pretreatment indicated a favorable fracture force and mode of failure. Surface analysis studies were used to characterize the pretreated and failed surfaces.