Laser Induced Decohesion Spectroscopy: A New Technique for Measuring Polymer Interfacial Adhesion

ABSTRACTWe present a new technique, laser induced decohesion spectroscopy (LIDS), which is capable of measuring the practical work of adhesion G between a transparent polymer film and an opaque substrate. In LIDS, a laser pulse directed onto the sample creates a blister at the film/substrate interface. The blister's internal pressure depends on the laser pulse energy, and at a critical pressure the sample fractures. We have derived a theoretical analysis of this experiment based on elasticity theory and fracture mechanics, and present the results. By measuring physical variables such as the thickness of the transparent polymer, the blister radius, and the blister curvature, it is possible to deduce G between the two coatings. Here we report G for a matrix of automotive finish systems consisting of four opaque basecoats of various colors (black, white, red, green) coated with a clearcoat of various thicknesses. We expect G to be a system parameter for each basecoat independent of clearcoat thickness. The values of G for the different basecoats yield the relative adhesion of the various pigmented paint formulations.

Application Of Electron Microscopy To Automotive Finish Defect Analysis

Coatings are applied to appliances, instruments and automobiles for a variety of reasons including corrosion protection and enhancement of market value. Automobile finishes are a highly complex blend of polymeric materials which have a definite impact on the eventual ability of a car to sell. Consumers report that the gloss of the finish is one of the major items they look for in an automobile.With the finish being such an important part of the automobile, there is a zero tolerance for paint defects by auto assembly plant management. Owing to the increased complexity of the paint matrix and its inability to be “forgiving” when foreign materials are introduced into a newly applied finish, the analysis of paint defects has taken on unparalleled importance. Scanning electron microscopy with its attendant x-ray analysis capability is the premier method of examining defects and attempting to identify their root cause.Defects are normally examined by cutting out a coupon sized portion of the autobody and viewing in an SEM at various angles.