NOTE The Application of Surface Analysis Techniques in the Adhesive Bonding of Oily Automotive Steel

There are fewer papers on the adhesive bonding of steel for structural applications than for aluminum and titanium alloys. However, the approach to the adhesive bonding of all three adherends has been similar, that is, the surfaces are pretreated prior to bonding. Trawinski, et al.^1,2,3 reviewed several conversion coatings or etching processes used for steel. Haak and Smith⁴ selected two surface treatments among nineteen based on minimal cost, simplicity and good durability. Smith⁵ has reported work on stainless steel-epoxy bonds under hydrothermal stress. Bischof, et al.⁶ investigated the effect of surface pretreatment of steel on bonding strength obtained with polyvinyl chloride. Ziane, et al.⁷ identified four fracture zones resulting from shear loading of epoxy bonded galvanized steel following four different surface pretreatments. But in some cases, as in the automotive industry, there is a need to bond oily steel directly without surface pretreatment. Rosty, et al.⁸ have reported a study of the role of fillers and cure temperature on the shear strength of oily steel bonded with epoxy. None of the reported research utilizes both microscopic and spectroscopic techniques to analyze the fracture surfaces.