DeBond Marine Formula Adhesive Remover

Specifically formulated for the marine industry, DeBond Marine formula is a sophisticated blend of solvents and surfactants that act as an industrial strength polyurethane (5200, etc.) de-bonder and multi-purpose cleaner.

Although competing products may have success removing fresh 5200, Marine Formula is one of the few that will work effectively on cured 5200.
Marine Formula also excels as a cleaner and touch-up solvent when using adhesive sealants. Use it on a clean rag to wipe away excess squeeze-out and spills during the application process.

Use Marine Formula™ to clean-up and remove these common marine adhesives and sealants:
(Note — Always test a drop or two on an inconspicuous area to check for surface compatibility before using †.)
• Cured 3M™ 5200 and other polyurethane adhesives
• Caulks & sealants
• Black rub marks
• Most graffiti and overspray
• Adhesive residue from duct tape and masking tapes
• Liquid nails
• Polysulfide sealants
• Will not harm: gelcoat, clear coat, Plexiglass, AwlGrip®, Imron®
• No not use on plastics*, soft paints, or varnish


Heavy on the technical side...
How Marine Formula works:   Polyurethane adhesive/sealants form long interlocking chains of molecules when they come into contact with the surfaces to be bonded. These molecular chains are what forms the bond with the surface (fiberglass, metal, wood, etc.).
Marine Formula™ penetrates into the polyurethane adhesive sealant (such as 3M™ Marine 5200) and, through a chemical process, breaks the interlocking molecular chains. When the chains are broken, the adhesive loses its sticking power.

Here are some tips for using Marine Formula:
• Clean the surface of dust, dirt, grease, or wax before applying Marine Formula.
• † Test first:  Apply a very small amount of Marine Formula to an inconspicuous area and leave it for five or ten minutes. If it is incompatible, you will notice a softening almost immediately. Some isopropyl alcohol and/or soap and water will stop the action of Marine Formula. If there is no softening, Marine Formula can be used for your project.
• Marine Formula needs to make contact with the polyurethane. Use a razor knife to score around the edges of the seal to increase access for the solvents. A putty knife or wedge can be used to help apply lifting pressure, allowing for further access to the sealant molecules.
• Allow Marine Formula enough time to work. The longer the polyurethane is exposed to Marine Formula the more molecule chains will be broken down. Removing smaller pieces of hardware - like a cleat or engine bracket - can take from 2 to 30 minutes, for example. Larger projects can take longer and require several applications.
• As with any chemical reaction, Marine Formula works best at warmer temperatures. Above 70°F is ideal.
• Working in the shade helps slow evaporation of the solvents Marine Formula needs to work.
• Avoid allowing Marine Formula to drip onto other areas as it will debond any polyurethane it contacts. Denatured alcohol and/or soap and water will stop the chemical process. Keep a supply of clean rags at hand when using Marine Formula.

• * DO NOT use Marine Formula on plastics! Plastics are constructed with long chains of molecules that are similar to those in polyurethane adhesives and sealants. It is possible that Marine Formula will break down the structure of plastics.
Marine Formula can be used on Plexiglass® (acrylic) hatch and portlight lenses. Wash thoroughly with soap and water afterwards.
Do not use Marine Formula on Lexan® (polycarbonate) lenses if you you intend to re-use them.