Automotive Coatings Defects Part I: In-Plant and Field Defects

By Clifford K. Schoff

This paper deals with field defects and problems in automotive coatings and how they are caused or affected by weathering. It begins with a brief discussion of defects that occur in the auto factory, such as craters, pops, sags, and foreign material (dirt), some of which can affect durability. Then, it moves on to field defects and problems, a number of which occur as part of the weathering process.

Others become worse with weathering. Examples of defects caused by weathering include blistering, water spotting, acid etch, cracking and spalling, delamination, fading and other color changes, and corrosion. Examples of defects that are worsened by weather include mar and scratch, cracking and, sometimes, stone chipping. Each of these defects is discussed.