What type of drying mechanism is used in air-drying paints?

Air-drying paints primarily rely on the evaporation of solvents as the main drying mechanism. In this process, the volatile components of the paint, such as organic solvents and water, evaporate into the air after the paint has been applied. As the solvents evaporate, the paint film becomes less fluid and starts to form a solid film, which eventually leads to the paint hardening and adhering to the surface.

This method of drying does not require any external heat source and can occur at room temperature. It is commonly used in various types of paints, including those based on water or solvent systems, making it practical for a wide range of applications. Understanding this mechanism is crucial for selecting the right type of paint for a given project, as it affects drying time and the finish of the applied paint.

Other drying methods, such as heat activation and thermal curing, involve specific temperature conditions that accelerate curing processes, typically seen in specialty coatings or industrial applications, while oxidation of pigments is relevant to different types of paint chemistry but is not the primary mechanism in air-drying paints.