A dormant color, specifically in the context of powder coatings, works through a unique two-layer process where the color becomes visible during curing.
Dormant powder coatings are a type of metallic finish created by applying two distinct layers: a colored basecoat and a clear topcoat. The magic happens during the curing process.
The Dormant Color Process
Based on the provided reference, the mechanism can be broken down into these steps:
- Basecoat Application: A basecoat is applied first. This layer contains a metallic component along with a dye or vibrant pigment that is chemically bonded to the metallic. This basecoat is where the potential color resides, but it isn't fully visible at this stage.
- Topcoat Application: A clear topcoat is then sprayed over the basecoat. This layer is initially transparent.
- Curing and Dye Migration: The coated object is heated in an oven to cure the powder coatings. During this curing process, the dye or vibrant pigment, which was bonded in the basecoat, becomes mobile. It travels from the bonded basecoat and settles within the clear coat itself.
It is this migration and settling of the dye within the clear topcoat during curing that creates the final vibrant finish associated with dormant colors. The clear coat acts as a medium where the dye disperses and becomes visible, transforming the appearance from the initial layered state to the final colored, metallic look.
In essence, the color is "dormant" or hidden in the base layer until the heat from curing activates the process, allowing the dye to migrate into the clear outer layer and reveal the intended vibrant hue.
