What is a characteristic of oxidation cure coatings?

Oxidation cure coatings are designed to cure through a chemical reaction with oxygen in the air, leading to a cross-linking of the coating matrix. One notable characteristic of these coatings is that they often have a specific limitation regarding the dry film thickness that can be achieved in a single application. This limitation ensures proper curing and optimal performance of the coating. If applied too thickly, the inner layers may not cure properly due to insufficient exposure to air, potentially leading to issues such as incomplete film formation, reduced adhesion, or compromised protective properties.

In contrast, when considering other characteristics, oxidation cure coatings are typically not recommended for immersion service, as they may not withstand constant contact with water without degrading. Additionally, these coatings are not particularly suited for alkaline substrates due to the potential for chemical reactions that can impair adhesion. Lastly, while they may offer decent impermeability, they do not generally deliver the high levels of impermeability found in other types of coatings, such as epoxy or polyurethane barrier coatings. Thus, the emphasis on limited dry film thickness per coat stands out as a defining feature of oxidation cure coatings.