Methods for applying decorative and protective coatings utilizing finely divided powders followed by heat fusion of the powder particles to form a continuous film are gaining in popularity and commercial acceptance. Since there are no volatile organic compounds present, powder coating is an environmentally friendly, nonpolluting coating process, providing coatings with improved performance as well. Powder coatings can be found on many common items including lawn and garden equipment, outdoor metal furniture, display racks, architectural aluminum panels and trim, and many automotive components including the exterior clear coat. The chemistry and composition of powders used in coatings and their properties are described, as well as their method of manufacture, processes used to apply them, their applications, and a review of health, safety, and environmental considerations. Over 100 references are supplied to provide more detailed technical information.

Methods for applying decorative and protective coatings utilizing finely divided powders followed by heat fusion of the powder particles to form a continuous film are gaining in popularity and commercial acceptance. Since there are no volatile organic compounds present, powder coating is an environmentally friendly, nonpolluting coating process, providing coatings with improved performance as well. Powder coatings can be found on many common items including lawn and garden equipment, outdoor metal furniture, display racks, architectural aluminum panels and trim, and many automotive compounds including the exterior clear coat. The chemistry and composition of powders used in coatings and their properties are described, as well as their method of manufacture, processes used to apply them, their applications and a review of health, safety and environmental considerations. Over 100 references are supplied to provide more detailed technical information.

No abstract

The coating processes used to apply coating powders all employ a fusion coating method. The individual power particles are melted and fused together to form a continuous coating useful in thin film, decorative, or thicker film functional applications. Application methods include the use of fluidized beds, electrostatic sprays employing both corona discharge and triboelectric guns, electrostatic fluidized beds, and hot flocking. Both thermoplastic coating powders based on nylon, plasticized PVC, or several fluoropolymers, as well as thermosetting coating powders are used. Thermosetting coating powders based on epoxy resins, epoxy‐polyester combinations, polyester‐TGIC cured, polyesters cured with blocked isocyanates, and acrylic resins are described. Properties of powder coatings are described as are the test methods and regulations regarding the coating powder. Methods of manufacturing coating powders include melt‐mixing and dry‐blending processes. Usage of powder coatings for both industrial and architectural applications is increasing worldwide.