UV Potential in Refinish Application Steps

The objective of this paper is to present the potential for UV coatings in each of the application steps for an automotive refinish repair. The topics discussed will be each of the steps for a refinish repair from body filler to primer, through basecoat, and conclude with clearcoat. In each of the steps, the advantage and challenges of UV coatings will be discussed for the process. Some of these challenges are curing of thick films, co-adhesion between layers, color control, and exterior durability. There are also many other challenges discussed for each step. Once all of these challenges can be answered with UV coatings, UV will be a viable option for the refinish market.