ETFE (ethylene tetrafluoroethylene) (the solar panel backing material) is a low-surface-energy fluoropolymer, so it can be tricky for adhesives like 3M VHB tape to bond reliably without help. While many people successfully mount flexible ETFE-backed solar panels using VHB tape (especially 5952 or 4952 series) after thorough cleaning, a primer is strongly recommended for maximum strength, longevity, and to avoid peeling over time—particularly in outdoor/exposed conditions with temperature swings, UV, and vibration.

3M Tape Primer 94 (also called 3M Primer 94) is the best choice for ETFE and most low-surface-energy plastics.

• It's specifically formulated for difficult substrates like polyethylene, polypropylene, fluoropolymers, and other low-energy plastics.
• It creates a better bonding surface and helps block any additives or oils that could migrate and weaken the bond.
• Widely used in solar, RV, marine, and sign applications where VHB is applied to ETFE or similar films.

3M Adhesion Promoter 111 (AP111) is a good alternative, but it's better suited for high-surface-energy materials (metals, painted surfaces). It works on some plastics, but Primer 94 is the preferred option for ETFE-like surfaces.

1. Clean both the ETFE panel back and the aluminum bracket base with 50/50 isopropyl alcohol/water (or 3M VHB Cleaner) and a lint-free cloth. Let dry completely.
   
2. Apply a very thin, even coat of Primer 94 to the ETFE surface (and optionally to the bracket if needed). Use the pen/ampule applicator for control—don't over-apply, as excess can reduce bond strength.
3. Let the primer dry for 30–90 seconds (it should feel tacky but not wet).
4. Apply your VHB tape to the bracket, remove the liner, press firmly onto the primed ETFE surface, and apply strong pressure (ideally 15 psi for 10–20 seconds) or use a roller.
5. Full bond strength builds over 24–72 hours.

✅ Always test on a small, inconspicuous area of your panel first.

✅ If you're using a thicker VHB like 5952, it already bonds well to low-energy surfaces, but Primer 94 still gives the most reliable long-term results.

✅ For critical/high-wind applications, combine the primer with edge sealing (Sikaflex 521 UV or similar) to prevent water intrusion.

⚠️ If you skip the primer and the bond fails later, the tape is extremely hard to remove from ETFE without damaging the panel—so using Primer 94 is cheap insurance for a permanent hold.

The aluminum brackets are designed to slide back and forth along the panel, allowing you to match different rail spacing and create a perfectly aligned installation. This gives you more flexibility than fixed-position brackets.

Yes. The brackets allow 180° manual rotation, so you can easily aim the panel toward the sun or lay it flat when docking or storing.

Yes. Once mounted, you can rotate and reposition the panel by hand to optimize sun exposure throughout the day.

Yes. You can order this panel as DIY (Do-It-Yourself) or Pre-Installed with brackets. DIY installation guidance is provided.

The Pre-Installed option comes with brackets already mounted and ready to clamp onto your rail. The DIY option lets you install the brackets yourself using the provided guidance.

It is designed to fit standard 1-inch (25mm) marine rails used on most sailboats and powerboats.

Yes. It features a carbon fiber back, marine-grade construction, and corrosion-resistant aluminum hardware designed to withstand saltwater, UV exposure, and extreme weather.

Yes. The aluminum adjustable brackets are designed to lock securely in position and stay stable even in windy marine conditions.

Yes. The panel can be rotated down flat when docking, covering the boat, or during storage.

No. The rail clamps allow secure mounting without drilling into your boat.

The SeaDog bracket version is permanently pre-installed and allows the panel to rotate and tilt only, making it quick and simple to aim toward the sun. The sliding aluminum bracket version allows the brackets to slide back and forth along the panel, giving more flexibility in matching rail spacing and custom mounting positions.

The sliding aluminum bracket version offers more mounting flexibility because the brackets can slide along the panel. The SeaDog version is simpler, with fixed clamp positions and manual rotation only.

Choose the SeaDog bracket version if you want a clean, ready-to-install solution with easy tilt adjustment. Choose the sliding aluminum bracket version if you need maximum flexibility to match different rail widths or custom mounting layouts.

Yes. Both versions use the same SunPower® A+ grade 24.4% efficient cells and marine-grade ETFE construction with shade-tolerant performance and carbon fiber backing.

Yes. Both designs use split-panel construction and shade-tolerant cell technology, allowing continued power production even when part of the panel is shaded.