Why Diatex Peel Plies Stand Out in Aerospace Composites
When compared with standard dry polyester or nylon peel plies, generic coated fabrics, or wet/pre-impregnated alternatives, DIATEX1500EV6 and PA100 ST offer a cleaner, more reliable solution for aerospace manufacturing.
Unlike many competing peel plies that rely on silicone or PTFE release coatings, the Diatex range is designed to deliver easy removal without contamination risk. Both products are dry, uncoated, high-tenacity fabrics developed for epoxy, polyester, and phenolic systems in autoclave and vacuum infusion processes.
They leave behind a clean, textured surface ideal for:
- Secondary bonding
- Priming
- Painting
- Structural adhesive applications
At-a-Glance Comparison
| Feature | DIATEX1500EV6 / PA100 ST | Typical Market Alternatives |
|---|---|---|
| Release system | Dry, uncoated fabric | Often silicone- or PTFE-coated |
| Contamination risk | Extremely low | Higher risk of transfer or residue |
| Surface after peel | Clean, textured, bond-ready | May require sanding or solvent wiping |
| Ease of removal | Clean, low-effort peel | Can bond too aggressively or tear |
| Shelf life | Long shelf life, no cold storage | Wet peel plies often require refrigeration |
| Post-processing | Minimal rework required | Often requires extra finishing steps |
| Suitability for aerospace bonding | Qualified for structural bonding | Performance can vary significantly |
Contamination Risk
Diatex Advantage
DIATEX1500EV6 is de-oiled and heat-set to remove manufacturing residues, with no release agents or silicone. It is qualified to:
- Airbus IPS 12-01-001-05
- Boeing BMS8-308 TYPE IV
Independent evaluations show that Diatex peel plies block a higher percentage of mould release contaminants, such as Frekote, than standard polyester alternatives.
PA100 ST follows the same no-contamination philosophy, helping ensure dependable preparation for demanding aerospace applications.
Compared with Standard Peel Plies
| Common Alternative | Typical Drawback |
|---|---|
| Standard nylon peel plies | Often bond too aggressively without coatings |
| Silicone/PTFE-coated peel plies | Easier release, but risk of contamination transfer |
| Standard polyester peel plies | May retain weaving lubricants or shrinkage residues |
| Wet/pre-impregnated peel plies | Can introduce resin-specific contamination or variability |
Result: Higher G1C/DCB bond values, fewer adhesion issues, and reduced need for post-peel cleaning.
Easier Release
Diatex Advantage
PA100 ST has been specifically developed for easier removal than Diatex’s standard PA90 reference while maintaining excellent drapeability on complex shapes.
DIATEX1500EV6 peels away cleanly after cure, even at temperatures up to 200°C, leaving a consistent textured surface without fibre residue or tearing.
Compared with Standard Peel Plies
| Common Alternative | Typical Drawback |
|---|---|
| Uncoated nylon peel plies | Can require high peel force and risk tearing |
| Coated peel plies | Release easily, but may contaminate the surface |
| Standard polyester peel plies | May shrink or leave uneven surface texture |
| Wet peel plies | Release can vary depending on resin system |
Result: Faster demoulding, less risk of part damage, and lower finishing time.
Lower Consumption Rates
Diatex Advantage
| Product | Areal Weight | Thickness | Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| DIATEX1500EV6 | 99 g/m² | 147 µm | Lower material usage with excellent performance |
| PA100 ST | 107 g/m² | 190 µm | Controlled weight with strong handling properties |
Because both materials are dry products, there is:
- No cold storage requirement
- No limited out-time
- No waste from expired inventory
- Reduced need for abrasives, solvents, and rework
Compared with Standard Peel Plies
| Common Alternative | Typical Drawback |
|---|---|
| Heavier dry peel plies | Often exceed 120 g/m² |
| Coated peel plies | May require extra consumables for cleaning |
| Wet peel plies | Limited shelf life and refrigeration requirements |
| Poor-release materials | Increased scrap rates and labour costs |
Result: Lower fabric consumption, less waste, and a more economical overall process.
Why Customers Choose Diatex
Customers looking for aerospace-qualified peel plies need reliable bonding performance, easy release, and low contamination risk.
DIATEX1500EV6 and PA100 ST deliver:
- Aerospace-approved performance
- Clean, bond-ready surfaces
- Easier removal on complex parts
- Lower consumable usage
- Reduced labour and rework
- Long shelf life with no cold storage needs
These products form part of the wider Diatex aeronautical range, making it easier to match customers with the right solution for high-performance composite applications.
Click here to view the Diatex range at Allied Composites. For all queries related to the Aeronautical Range, kindly email: info@alliedfibreglass.co.za