Auto Technical Reference Library Auto Refinishing

Topic Index

Contents of Paint

A paint's chemical content includes the following ingredients, each of which have a specific function within the paint formula.

Pigments

A material in the form of fine powders that impart color, opacity, durability and other characteristics to the primer or paint. The most important use of the pigment is to hide everything under the paint.

Binder

An ingredient in paint that holds the pigment particles together and helps the paint stick to the surface being refinished. Binder is usually modified with plasticizers and catalysts which improve such properties as durability, adhesion, corrosion resistance and flexibility.

Solvent

A liquid that will dissolve a material. Solvents are used in both cleaning products and paints. A solvent-based cleaning material is used to remove contamination from surfaces prior to refinishing. Thinners and reducers are made up of several solvents. They are used to reduce or thin a paint for spraying and give the paint flow characteristics, evaporating as the paint dries.

Additives

Ingredients added to a paint to alter their performance and characteristics. Additives are used to:

• Increase or decrease the drying process
• Help metallics and pigments lay down evenly
• Increase paint flexibility when cured
• Increase or decrease the gloss or shine of a finish