Which finish involves applying pigment by electrostatic spraying to create a wear-resistant surface layer?

• A. Powder coating
• B. Painting
• C. Plastic coating
• D. Surface finishing

Answer: (A)

Powder coating is the finish that uses dry pigment mixed with resin and applies it to a surface by electrostatic spraying. The charged powder is attracted to the grounded part, yielding a uniform coating even on complex shapes. After application, the part is heated so the powder melts, flows, and cures into a solid, wear-resistant film. This creates a durable surface that resists abrasion and corrosion, with minimal or no solvent usage.

Painting, by comparison, uses liquid coatings that can run or require more extensive surface preparation and may not achieve the same level of wear resistance. Plastic coating is a broader label for various coating types, not specifically the electrostatic powder process. Surface finishing is a general term for finishing steps, not a specific method.

So the method described—applying pigment by electrostatic spraying and curing to form a tough, durable layer—fits powder coating.