The evolution toward the use of electrostatic painting processes has been driven primarily by environmental legislation and efforts to improve efficiencies in the painting process. The development of conductive substrate material compliments the industry trend toward a green environment through further reductions in emissions of volatile organic compounds during the painting process.
Traditionally, electrostatic painting of thermoplastics requires that a conductive primer be applied to the substrate prior to topcoat application. The conductive polymer blend of polyphenylene ether and polyamide provides sufficient conductivity to eliminate usage of conductive primers. Additional benefits include improved transfer efficiencies of the primer and top coat systems, uniform film builds across the part, and improved painting of complex geometries.
The objective of this study was to demonstrate that this conductive polymer blend provides painting performance equivalent to steel without compromising the finished product performance. Statistical analysis of test data from plaques and parts was completed to assess the physical property performance of the material. Paint trials were conducted to measure paint transfer efficiency, film builds, and surface appearance. Additionally, studies were conducted on panel assemblies in a lab environment to evaluate dimensional stability through simulated environmental conditions. Test description, data, and conclusions are discussed in this paper.