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Q&A: The basics of waterborne direct-to-metal coatings

BASF Insights
Q&A | The basics of waterborne direct-to-metal coatings
March 20, 2019

Global

Are you in the know about waterborne direct-to-metal (DTM) coating technology? Check out the Q&A to find out.

When waterborne technology merges with a  direct-to-metal (DTM) system, you end up with a wide array of perks, from cost savings to sustainability. Do you know the basics of waterborne DTM coatings?

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Q&A

Q: What is the main benefit of a direct-to-metal (DTM) coating?

A: It only requires a single coat - DTM coatings are designed to work without a primer. They do have a sustainability angle — for example, when it comes to reducing material waste — but it's not the main draw.

Q: What are the primary industries for DTM coatings?

A: Industrial maintenance and general metal - DTM coatings are primarily used for general metal parts and industrial maintenance applications like doorframes, windows, interior manufacturing facility infrastructure and airport terminals, to name a few.

Q: When it comes to waterborne DTM coatings, which statement is the most accurate?

A: Waterborne DTM coatings are more sustainable, and it's possible for them to perform as well or better than solventborne. The great news about waterborne DTM coatings is that when you find the right system, you get the best of both worlds: high performance and sustainability thanks to its low VOC profile.

Q: What are the cost benefits of removing the need for a primer?

A: Saves time, material, and labor. The single coat translates to shorter application time, less material and reduced labor, all of which saves money in the long run.

Q: In what way are waterborne DTM coatings more sustainable?

A: They have a lower VOC profile and their high water content reduces or eliminates hazardous waste disposal. Waterborne DTM coatings have higher water content compared to their solventborne counterparts. The lower toxicity makes it easier for formulators to meet VOC regulations, and it often means less (or no) hazardous waste disposal.

Q: Which set of mechanical properties is NOT important in a waterborne DTM coating?

A: Gloss retention and aesthetics, chemical and corrosion resistance, and adhesion and flexibility are all important. Waterborne DTM coatings must adhere well to the metal substrate, offer good hardness and flexibility, and resist chemicals and corrosion — all while retaining aesthetic properties such as gloss.

We hope this Q&A shed light on the cost-effective properties of waterborne direct-to-metal coatings. To learn more about waterborne DTM technology by BASF, feel free to contact a representative or request more information about the following:

Last UpdateMarch 20, 2019