How to Bond Polyethylene to Aluminum

Certain materials, such as polyethylene, aluminum, fiberglass and steel, do not bond well. Their adhesive capability is made even worse if they have smooth surfaces. Bonding materials such as these requires a special glue, such as a conduit adhesive, to achieve a proper bond. If you use the correct adhesive, do a good prep job and give the materials long enough to cure, you can bond even the most difficult materials together.

Things You'll Need

• Conduit adhesive
• 80-grit aluminum abrasive cloth
• Cleaning wipes

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Sand both surfaces that you would like to bond with 80-grit aluminum abrasive cloth, then clean them with cleaning wipes to remove sanding particles and debris. Proper cleaning is essential to achieving a strong bond.

   • 2

     Apply a ¼-inch bead of conduit adhesive to the surfaces of the polyethylene and aluminum. Attach the materials together.

   • 3

     Clean excess adhesive from the surfaces. Allow a minimum of 24 hours for the adhesive to cure. Keep in mind that peak adhesion occurs after seven days.