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Refinish

Definition

Aftermarket repaint applied at a body shop, distinguishable from OEM (original equipment manufacturer) paint by layer count, binder chemistry, and application technique.

Related terms

Binder
The polymer matrix that holds pigments in place and bonds the paint to the substrate. Identifies paint type (alkyd, acrylic, polyurethane, epoxy)...
E-Coat
Electrocoat primer, the first layer applied to a clean steel/aluminium substrate via cathodic electrodeposition. Usually black, epoxy-based, near-universal on modern automotive bodies.
PDQ
Paint Data Query database (RCMP-maintained). Cross-referenced from glass work when a vehicle is identified through paired glass and paint evidence.
Pigment
Insoluble particles that give colour and opacity. Titanium dioxide (white), iron oxides (red/brown), carbon black (black), organic colorants (blues, reds). SEM-EDX reports...
Py-GC-MS
Pyrolysis gas chromatography mass spectrometry. Thermal decomposition of a paint sample, separation of fragments, mass spectral identification. Definitive identification of polymer binders.

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