The History and Development of Paint Detackification Technologies

Detackification is an essential step in automotive paint processes, one that has evolved alongside paint technology through the years.

Paint Detackification Timeline

The following is a general timeline of paint and detack development through the years: 

1950s—1970s 
Paint technology: solvent low-solids enamels 
Detack technology: high-alkalinity programs with sinking solids 

Early 1980s 
Paint: high-solids enamels 
Detack: clay, aluminum, and tannin; move to solids removal 

Late 1980s 
Paint: introduction of water-based base coasts 
Detack: move to melamine; majority of programs deal with solids removal 

Early 2000s 
Paint: moves to 2k clear coat 
Detack: melamine; move towards technologies derived from renewable resources

Mid-2000s 
Paint: water-based primers, base coats, and 2k clear coats 
Detack: reduced usage of melamine; increased adoption of technologies derived from renewable resources

2010s 
Paint: primerless applications 
Detack: technologies derived from renewable resources dominate 

The most recent developments in paint detack have many benefits over traditional programs. Reducing sludge waste, blowdown, product consumption, and total suspended solids in water reduces costs associated with water, freight, and booth cleaning. 

ChemTreat’s patented paint detackification technology offers the following benefits over standard treatment options: 

• As a starch component derived from corn, it is considered a biological renewable resource 
• Eliminates the use of formaldehyde in the treatment polymer for reduced toxicity  
• Reduces sludge volume and moisture 
• Reduced usage leads to reduced transportation costs 

We also offer defoamers, polymers, biocides, and pH-management products for comprehensive paint booth treatment. 

Request Consultation

Please contact ChemTreat for assistance in designing a treatment program customized for your application. Like all other technologies, due diligence is necessary to determine the feasibility for utilizing methods. Always consult your equipment manuals and guides.