In the early days of the automobile industry, paint was applied manually and dried for weeks at room temperature because it was a single component paint that dried by solvent evaporation. As mass production of cars made the process untenable, paint began to be dried in ovens.
Nowadays, two-component (catalyzed) paint is usually applied by robotic arms and cures in just a few hours either at room temperature or in heated booths.
Until several decades ago lead, chromium and other heavy metals were used in automotive paint. Environmental laws have prohibited this, which has resulted in a move to water-based paints. Up to 85% of lacquer paint can evaporate into the air, polluting the atmosphere. Enamel paint is better for the environment and replaced lacquer paint in the late 20th century. Water-based acrylic polyurethane enamels are now almost universally used as the basecoat with a clearcoat.[
Innovations are taking place in paint industry as well. These days, automotive paints come in liquid form, spray form, and powder forms:-
Liquid: Usually polyurethane paints. Compressor is needed to apply.
Spray: This is as same as perfume in spray bottle. Made for DIYer.
Powder or additive: Paints in powder form applied after mixing in paint thinner.
Types of Automotive Paints
Removable: These kinds of paints are made for giving custom appearance to vehicle.
Non-removable: Made for touch-ups and painting vehicle.
