Red Seal Automotive Refinishing Technician Practice Exam

What is a solvent borne paint system?

1. A paint system where water is the primary medium

2. A paint system where solvents are used as the primary medium

3. A paint system that does not require any solvents

4. A paint system using oil-based solutions only

The correct answer is: A paint system where solvents are used as the primary medium

A solvent borne paint system refers specifically to a type of paint formulation in which organic solvents are the primary medium used to carry the paint ingredients, such as pigments, resins, and additives. In this system, the solvents serve both to dissolve the resins and to reduce the viscosity of the paint, making it easier to apply. Once the paint is applied, the solvent evaporates, leaving the solid components behind to form a film on the substrate. The use of solvents allows for faster drying times and can offer enhanced finish characteristics, such as improved durability and gloss, compared to water-borne systems. Solvent-borne systems are often used in automotive refinishing because they can provide a smooth finish on metal surfaces and are compatible with various topcoats. Other options imply alternatives that do not fit the definition of a solvent borne paint system. For instance, a paint system where water is the primary medium would categorize it as waterborne, not solvent borne. Similarly, a system that does not require any solvents would not qualify as solvent borne at all, and claiming an oil-based solutions-only system does not encompass the full range of possible solvent-borne paints, as these can include a mix of various solvent types beyond just oils.