3-D characterization of multi-layered automotive coating systems: Stage-1 analytical toolbox for surfaces, interfaces, and depth profiles

Abstract

Chemical surface/near-surface, interface, and depth profile measurement technologies, as well as traditional microscopy measurement techniques, are very powerful tools in the ever-evolving efforts to study changes in multi-layered automotive coating systems. This chapter is intended as an overview of the analytical toolbox used initially (Stage-1) to obtain a relatively detailed understanding of the chemical composition of coating systems as a function of application environment, formulation, cure conditions, exposure, and storage history. Optical microscopy (OM) and environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM) with high resolution digital imaging and elemental analysis (EDS) capabilities are often employed with spectroscopy-based investigations (IR ATR/Trans-mode; UV-Vis) to more completely characterize the chemical changes, species distribution/migration, and identify defect locus/composition. Corresponding sample preparation techniques are noted in each of the case studies presented. Application examples are taken from both plant/field problem- solving cases and service life prediction efforts in characterization of finishes from the automotive OEM and Refinish markets. © Springer Science+Business Media, LLC 2009.