Ask the Expert Question-and-Answer Archive

by Ron Joseph

October, 2007

Bonding to CARC Paint

Q: I have a aluminum metal name plate and I would like to know the best way to permanantly stick it to a piece of metal with CARC paint on it.

A: CARC is a polyurethane and has been formulated to be inert to chemical attack after is has cured. Fortunately CARC is not smooth, but on a microscopic scale has some roughness to it.  I suggest that you try to use an epoxy adhesive to attach the metal plate to the coating.  Bear in mind that in the best case scenario the bond will only be as good as the bond between the CARC and the primer beneath it. In other words, if the CARC should delaminate from the epoxy primer below it, or the epoxy should delaminate from the metal substrate, your aluminum plate will come off as well.

At least it is worth a try.

Regards,

Ron Joseph