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Freudenberg Sealing Technologies has introduced FACT, a surface treatment process for bonding elastomers to metal and plastic substrates without the use of wet chemical agents.
The process enables adhesion between elastomers and ferrous metals, non ferrous metals, and a range of plastics through a fully automated treatment method. By modifying component surfaces at a microscopic level, the system prepares substrates directly for vulcanization or elastomer bonding without requiring solvents or binders.
The elimination of wet chemical bonding reduces material and energy consumption in the pretreatment phase. According to internal lifecycle assessment data, CO₂ emissions can be reduced significantly compared to conventional processes. In benchmark testing, emissions were reduced to approximately 1.1 percent relative to traditional wet chemical bonding methods.
The process maintains key functional properties including weldability, electrical conductivity, and resistance to media such as oils, water, hydrogen, and AdBlue. Adhesion performance remains stable under mechanical load and at temperatures down to -40°C, without the formation of microcracks.
FACT also enables broader material combinations that were previously difficult to achieve, expanding application potential across mobility and energy systems. Integrated process monitoring supports traceability and quality control during manufacturing.
The development reflects a shift toward solvent free surface technologies aimed at reducing environmental impact while maintaining performance in industrial bonding applications.
