Talk Composites - The Forum for Advanced Composites

Painting and finishing CFRP

http://www.talkcomposites.com/Topic4847.aspx

By carboncactus - 2/14/2013 12:16:34 PM

Hi, Im doing a project where I have a carbon part that needs to be painted a solid colour on one side, carbon showing on the other. Its a decorative piece,  so wont be in the sun. The carbon side will be in contact with sharp objects.  I have peel plied the surface that needs painting thinking it should help. Reading online, I understand the way to go is to hit it with 2k high build epoxy primer, sand it down, then give it a coat of commercial polyurethane. Lastly, an all over coat of AC lacquer for toughness. Does anyone have any different thoughts?
Thanks
By brasco - 2/14/2013 1:25:30 PM

lacquer is a single component product,and it is weak of all the clear coats. the top of the line in cost and gloss and durability is
high solids acrylic urethane automotive clear coat. it will polish up like mad, and will hold it 's gloss over time.
unsure of the paint makers in your market--ICI, Dupont, PPG, Spies-Hecker, Sherwin-Williams , Glasurit , R-M. all of these are top quality makers.

if you use auto paint, make sure the counter monkey gets you high solids acrylic urethane clearcoat, and fast or medium temp reducer and /or activator.
if you are in blighty or a high humidity area let your time between coats be such that the coats are almost dry to the touch, otherwise you may trap solvent and moisture in the clear and it will(CAN) cause a hazy/milky condition in the clear and you cant fix it. your fooked then.

you may also consider just taking the piece to an autobody repair shop and see what they charge to clear it for you.