Global

Q&A: All about automotive coating formulations

May 28, 2020

Global

There are some misconceptions out there about automotive coatings. Do you know them well enough to ace these questions?

As an automotive coating formulator, your job is affected by ever-changing trends in consumer preferences for various colors and visual effects. That makes it difficult to balance looks, performance, SKU complexity, sustainability and more — not to mention all the additive choices out there.

Think you know everything there is to know about formulating high-performance automotive coatings?

How can we help?

Have a question about BASF's Dispersions, Resins and Additives? Contact our experts.

Q&A

Q: Is there such a thing as a universal dispersing agent for automotive coatings?

A: You got it. It's not a well-known secret, but there are universal dispersing agents that perform very well in the realm of automotive coatings. Efka^® PX 4753 has a broad formulation latitude in solvent-borne basecoat systems to help you address the demand for greater variety. Dispex^® Ultra PX 4290 is an option for waterborne basecoat technologies.

Q: You are working with a high-chroma pigment, such as phthalocyanine blue or quinacridone red. Do you need a specialized dispersing agent?

A: Yes, for high-chroma pigments like those, you need a dispersing agent that is higher in molecular weight, like Efka^® PX 4753. The product also excels as a general dispersant with plenty of versatility. Carbon blacks do better with Efka PX 4703, a 99 percent active dispersant.

Q: Why hasn't solvent-borne technology been completely replaced by waterborne technology in automotive coatings?

A: Applicators prefer the handling characteristics, performance and lower cost of solvent-borne systems. It is possible to formulate for lower VOCs in a solvent-borne automotive coating by using exempt solvents. There are other ways to formulate a solvent-borne coating sustainably, such as 100% solids systems that generate fewer VOCs. While waterborne excels in some industries for its low VOC content, a significant number of automotive coatings users still prefer the great performance of solvent-borne technology. With the right approach, solvent-borne coatings can still be lower-VOC and sustainably made.

Q: How do formulators demonstrate bio-renewable content in their products?

A: JR: Bio-renewable content is studied and evaluated by ink manufacturers and reported by NAPIM, the National Association of Printing Ink Manufacturers. This is an industry group with an accounting system that calculates the amount of BRC in your formulation. You can then put the number on your label to show the ink has 20, 50, 80 percent BRC — whatever the case may be — based on this formula established by NAPIM.

It allows ink manufacturers to demonstrate bio-renewable content in a standardized way. And Joncryl 662 makes it easier for them to achieve higher percentages.

Q: How do you achieve a more sustainable solvent-borne coating?

A: Ensure the dispersant is close to 100 percent solids. (High solids) Find eco-friendly dispersants, wetting agents, defoamers and rheology modifiers. Exactly. You can use a combination of approaches: find a dispersing agent with 100 percent solids or close to it, and use a range of additives designed for eco-friendliness and sustainability. A BASF formulation expert can help you find the right mix.

Q: What properties should you always look for in an automotive coating?

A: Appearance qualities (such as color, transparency and sparkle). Good handling viscosity, stability and color strength. Resistance to fading and durability. Right on target! While appearance is of prime importance in an automotive coating, other constraints and attributes must also be met. A successful formulation should balance features to meet all of the various properties or aspects listed and meet desired VOC targets.

Last UpdateMay 28, 2020