Real-time monitoring of paint coating curing state with RGB sensor

Abstract

Paint coating is a critical process that provides both surface protection and esthetic enhancement in diverse industries. However, if the paint does not undergo proper curing, it fails to exhibit its intended functions and may result in surface defects like bubbles and wrinkles. The curing time of paint varies depending on factors such as paint type and color, necessitating a means to accurately assess its drying progress. While visual cues like the paint drying to the touch are commonly used, objective measurements are crucial. In this study, we introduced an innovative method utilizing RGB sensors to monitor the real-time drying state of waterborne paint based on synthetic resin emulsion. Integrated with an Arduino Uno®, this system analyzes color changes through the color change rate (C′). As the curing progresses, C′ decreases, reaching its lowest point during the touch-dry phase. Moreover, the measured RGB values and C′ differed by − 3% to − 13% depending on the color, revealing varying touch-dry times. This breakthrough allows for the detection of the paint's drying state using RGB sensors, enabling cost-effective, real-time assessment based on objective measurements. © 2024 Elsevier B.V.