What Makes PR-2201 B-1 a Trusted Sealant for Aircraft Applications

Sealants are among the most important chemicals on all modern aircraft. Cured sealant keeps fluids in where they are supposed to stay and moisture out of places it is not supposed to be. How the material acts in a specific area is very important, and one of the common causes of failures in certain areas of the aircraft is inappropriate coatings.

The industry has a few leaders in this space, and PPG is at the center of sealant innovation. Their PR-2201 B-1 sealant is a specialty sealant designed to protect areas that require electrical conductivity, corrosion inhibition, and rapid curing cycles. 

Understanding PR-2201 B-1: The Sealant Enhancing Aircraft Safety and Performance

Aircraft maintenance requires knowledge and understanding of many types of sealants, chemicals, and lubricants. 

Some of the sealants are more generic and used all over the aircraft, while others are specialty products made for a specific purpose. PR-2201 B-1 is one such sealant. 

There are materials on aircraft, particularly exceptionally high-performance jet aircraft (both military and civilian), using advanced electrical and avionics suites that require a special type of corrosion-inhibiting sealant. These areas routinely call for sealing dissimilar metals in addition to aluminum alloys. They need to be free from water, salt, other oils, and, of course, jet fuel or aviation gas. 

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PPG PR-2201 B-1 is a specialized, electrically conductive, non-chromated, corrosion-inhibitive sealant for aerospace environments. Applications in aircraft include:

  • EMI/RFI Shielding: The sealant is electrically conductive, making it ideal for EMI/RFI shielding. This protects avionics and electronic systems from external and internal electrical noise.
  • Corrosion Protection: PR-2201 B-1 is a barrier against corrosion, especially on aluminum alloys and joints between dissimilar metals, common in aircraft structures. This prevents galvanic corrosion and extends aircraft life.
  • Sealing of Dissimilar Metals: The product is formulated to seal joints and interfaces where dissimilar metals meet, such as fastener lines, access panels, and structural joints. This reduces corrosion and maintains the aircraft's structure.
  • Fuel Tank and Fuselage Sealing: Resistant to jet fuel and aviation gasoline, it’s suitable for sealing areas exposed to these substances, such as fuel tanks, access doors, and fuselage panels.
  • General Purpose Conductive Sealing: Used in any application where a conductive path and environmental sealing are required, such as grounding points, antenna bases, and electrical bonding locations.
  • Rapid Maintenance and Assembly: With its fast cure profile, PR-2201 B-1 is excellent for maintenance and assembly where aircraft downtime is critical

Introduction to Electrically Conductive Sealants

In some areas, an electrically conductive sealant is the only kind of cured sealant that can be used. Why would you want excellent electrical conductivity in a sealant, though?

Here are a couple of ways you would want to use this.

For EMI/RMF shielding, you will want a cured sealant around avionics buyers, electronics housing (think offensive and defensive avionics suites), or access panels to prevent unwanted electrical noise from impacting highly sensitive equipment. 

Dissimilar metals are critical because they are almost always prone to galvanic corrosion.

Key Properties of PR-2201 Class B-1 Sealant

These are the key properties of PR-2201 B-1 sealant:

Electrical Conductivity and EMI/RFI Shielding

Most sealants are not electrically conductive, nor are they capable of providing EMI or RFI shielding. PR-2201 is no ordinary sealant; it is made for specialty applications where electrical conductivity in the sealant is essential.  

Temperature Resistance and Fuel Compatibility

A lot of sealants are intolerant to heat and do not hold up to fuels. PR-2201 B-1 is a rugged, nickel‑filled epoxy sealant designed for aerospace use. It tolerates extreme heat, from arctic low temps to intermittent high-heat exposure, and reliably resists permeation from jet fuel and avgas. This makes it hugely valuable for sealing and bonding around fuel tanks and on temperature-sensitive aircraft components.

It can handle an operating temperature range of –67°F (–55 °C) to 250°F (121 °C) with intermittent excursions up to 360°F (182 °C). Once it is fully cured, it is built to withstand AVGAS and Jet fuel. 

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Corrosion Protection for Aluminum and Dissimilar Metals

Contact between two dissimilar metals is one of the leading causes of corrosion on airframes. You need a sealant to separate these dissimilar metal types, and you should know where and when to separate them. 

Environmental and Safety Considerations

PR-2201 B1 Part A is a liquid, industrial-use sealant made by PPG Industries. It’s hazardous because it can cause skin and eye irritation, allergic skin reactions, and is toxic to aquatic life. Main ingredients are bis-[4-(2,3-epoxipropoxi)phenyl]propane, trizinc bis(orthophosphate), and zinc oxide.

Do not release into waterways. When handling, wear personal protective equipment (PPE) such as chemical-resistant gloves, goggles, and a respirator. First aid is to rinse the skin or eyes with water and seek medical attention if symptoms persist.

In case of fire, the product will emit harmful fumes (e.g., carbon and nitrogen oxides), and containers may rupture due to pressure buildup. For spill cleanup, use absorbent materials and follow local regulations for waste disposal.

The product has low water solubility and is not biodegradable. Environmental containment is critical. It’s an environmentally hazardous substance (UN3082) under transport regulations, but small quantities (≤5L) may be exempt from some restrictions. Store above 5°C (41°F).

Final Thoughts: Why PR-2201 B-1 Is a Top Choice in Aviation

PPG PR-2201 B-1 is a highly specialized sealant, not a run-of-the-mill choice for general applications. But it is approved for when you need an electrically conductive sealant for use in dissimilar metals, around fuel systems, and other specialty applications. 

Greenwood Aerospace is your preferred partner for aviation sealants, lubricants, and solvents. We have partnered with some of the largest brands in the industry and offer a wide range of products. 

Greenwood Aerospace is a U.S. Department of State ITAR-registered company, enabling us to partner with large defense contractors on various military initiatives involving the export of ITAR-controlled items.

  • UEI: KVSUYYSJS174
  • DUNS: 604006874
  • Cage Code: 2Y735
  • ITAR DDTC Export Compliant
  • AS9120B QMS Certified
  • NAICS: 488190, 336413, 332722, 336411, 336413, 481212, 532411

Whatever your demands are for your maintenance operation for IPA, Greenwood Aerospace has got you covered. Give us a call at (580) 762-2580 or email us at contact@governmentprocurement.com.