Characterization of adhesion performance of topcoats and adhesion promoters on TPO substrates

Adhesion of organic coatings to thermoplastic olefin (TPO) substrates in automotive applications has been an issue for makers of automotive parts since TPO was first used in exterior applications, primarily fascia. A widely used technique for assuring paint adhesion to TPO is the use of adhesion promoter primers based on chlorimated polypropylenes (CPO). Much research has been focused on understanding the forces involved at the interfaces of substrate, adhesion promoter, and topcoats resulting in the adhesion or the loss of adhesion in various environmental conditions. This study correlates the adhesion performance of CPO and nonchlorinated adhesion promoters (NCPO) as measured by peel strength with properties observed through microscopy techniques. Adhesion performance of CPOs, NCPOs, and blends are quantified through the use of 90° and 180° peel strength studies. Surface characteristics of adhesion promoters applied over a TPO substrate and cured at various temperatures are examined through the use of atomic force microscopy (AFM).