#4 Hydrophobics?
- Isiah Bernhardt
- Jul 5, 2020
- 2 min read
If you follow any detailing pages on social media, you will undoubtedly see pictures and videos of water beading on the paint. When the paint is "hydrophobic" it beads water. If you are new to the industry, this may seem irrelevant, but there is a real reason behind it.
To start, it is visually pleasing. There is nothing better than seeing water bead off the paint and practically dry itself. Aesthetically pleasing.. so its a good background for websites
(I think?).
Additionally it is a way of measuring the amount of protection on the paint. It is not the only factor, but is an easy method of discerning whether or not there is a wax, sealant, or coating on the paint. These protection products give a very slick surface, as well as make it very difficult for contamination to stick to the paint. This comes in handy, as it keeps paint clean longer, and makes it easier to wash.
"Water contact angle" is often touted by manufacturers to demonstrate their product superiority. "110º water contact angle" or even a product called Contact 121. The number refers to the angle of which the edge of a bead of water connects to the paint, measured from inside the drop of water. A 90º contact angle would mean the edge of the bead connects to the paint perpendicularly. Any higher than that, and the water actually bubbles out over the connecting edge, making the bead even more spherical. This is caused by the paint repelling the water, the stronger it repels, the less water touches the surface. Are you confused? I might be. Think about it for a bit, if you still don't understand let me know. I will confuse you even more. Just kidding.
I have bad news too. You know those frustrating as hell hard water spots? Well they are often caused by by water beads being allowed to dry on the surface. I will write another post complaining about this even more.
-Isiah
You can reach me here:
Email: bernhardtisiah99@gmail.com
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