COATING MATERIALS
Coating materials are applied in a thin film to provide protection or decoration to asurface. Most films are thin in comparison to the workpiece. In order to achievethe desired characteristics from the thin film, the coating material fon-nulationmust be carefully considered in relation to the part characteristics, surfacepreparation, application technique and curing method. The correct combination of components and process steps can lead to a film that provides long-lasting beautyand defense against the elements.Coatings can be formulated from a wide variety of chemicals and materials or acombination of different chemicals. Each component in the formulation serves aspecific fiinction. Four common components, shown in Table 2-1, are pigments,additives, binders and the carrier fluid or solvent.
Table 2-1
: Common Components of Coating Materials
COMPONENT CHEMISTRY FUNCTION
Pigments Insoluble solidsCommonly a colorant, usedfor aesthetic qualityBinders Polymers, ResinsAdhesive between solids andsurface, create the coatingfilmAdditives VariesVaries, can includestabilizers, curing agents,flow agentsCarrier FluidOrganic solvent,water Liquid portion, means bywhich to apply paint
Pigments
Pigments are defmed as any insoluble solid in coating materials. Pigments aretypically the colorant portion of a coating material, but can also perform otherfunctions. Some pigments provide corrosion protection, stability in ultraviolet(UV) light, or protection from mold, mildew or bacteria. Others can be used fortheir conductive ability, texture, or metallic or pearlescent appearance.
Binders
Binders primarily function as an adhesive to the substrate. Binders are polymerresin systems with varying molecular weights. The molecules in the bindercrosslink during the curing stage to improve strength and create the thin film. Thetype of binder usually gives the paint formulation its name. Common bindersare ,acrylics, epoxies, polyesters, and urethanes. The viscosity of the paint is oftenattributed to the binders contained in the coating formulation. Coating viscositymust be considered when choosing certain application techniques.
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