Measurement of condensate- and smoke-causing emissions from automotive paints and sealers

Abstract

Two major problems that periodically arise during the surface coating of automobiles are oven plume opacity (smoke that violates local opacity ordinances) and oven condensate that can drip on cars and leave an oily residue. Both of these problems are caused by the evaporation of semi-volatile organic compounds in bake ovens. A new test procedure has been developed to standardize the analysis and reporting of condensate/smoke-causing compounds that are emitted from paint, sealer, and coating materials when they are baked. Use of this test will allow identification and quantification of potential sources of condensate, smoke, and opacity in the laboratory. The information is essential to material suppliers and formulators, and to users who prescreen materials in order to avoid costly problems in production.