Topic

Surface science & materials

Gloss, wetting, adhesion and visible defects result from the interaction of material, light, contamination and layer structure. More in the overview.

Topic

Surface science & materials in practice

Gloss, wetting, adhesion and visible defects result from the interaction of material, light, contamination and layer structure. One effect does not replace a condition assessment.

Surface science & materials

Applicator

An applicator is used to apply wax, sealant, dressing or cleaner in a controlled way. It is usually made from foam or microfibre.

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Surface science & materials

Blending

Blending smooths the transition around a spot repair so that the newly painted area merges visually with the original finish.

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Surface science & materials

Buffing off

Buffing off removes polish residue after polishing. It helps leave a clear, even finish without holograms.

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Surface science & materials

Clay bar

A clay bar removes bonded particles from paint. It creates a smooth surface before polishing or applying protection.

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Surface science & materials

Clear coat

Clear coat is the transparent layer above the base coat. It protects against UV exposure, chemicals and mechanical wear and is the layer worked during polishing.

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Surface science & materials

Decontamination

Decontamination is the complete surface-cleaning stage before polishing or protection. It includes chemical and mechanical removal of bonded particles.

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Surface science & materials

Defect correction

Defect correction is the targeted removal of paint defects such as scratches, swirls, holograms or oxidation through polishing.

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Surface science & materials

Detailing

Detailing is precise professional vehicle care focused on quality, material safety and visual refinement. It includes paint correction, interior cleaning, protection, plastic care and specialist treatments.

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Surface science & materials

Detailing brush

Detailing brushes are fine cleaning brushes for badges, air vents, wheel areas and hard-to-reach spaces. They use soft bristles designed to minimise marking.

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Surface science & materials

Dressing

A dressing is a care product for plastic, rubber or tyres that refreshes colour and adds protection. Its finish may be matte, satin or glossy.

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Surface science & materials

Dwell time

Dwell time is the period a product needs to work. A dwell time that is too short or too long can reduce performance or cause damage.

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Surface science & materials

Exterior detailing

Exterior detailing covers all exterior-care processes for paint, wheels, glass, plastics, metal and the engine bay.

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Surface science & materials

Fillers

Fillers hide scratches optically without removing them. They are included in various polishing products.

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Surface science & materials

Foam lance

A foam lance produces snow foam to soften and loosen contamination before contact washing.

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Surface science & materials

Gloss level

Gloss level is a measurable value that describes how strongly a surface reflects light.

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Surface science & materials

Grit guard

A grit guard separates dirt in the wash bucket from the wash medium and helps reduce wash marks.

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Surface science & materials

Hardness level

Hardness level describes a clear coat's resistance to mechanical stress.

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Surface science & materials

Haze

Haze is a visible cloudy film caused by unsuitable polishing or incomplete buffing-off.

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Surface science & materials

Heat damage

Heat damage is permanent damage to paint, plastic or leather caused by excessive heat, often through incorrect machine use or aggressive chemicals.

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Surface science & materials

Hydrophobic behaviour

Hydrophobic behaviour describes a surface's ability to repel water.

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Surface science & materials

Masking

Masking protects sensitive areas such as rubber, plastic, chrome and edges from polish, heat or machine contact. It is a standard step in professional paint correction.

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Surface science & materials

Outgassing

Outgassing is the evaporation of solvents after painting or applying a coating. During this phase, the paint should not be washed or sealed again.

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Surface science & materials

Quick detailer

Quick detailers are rapid-care products for gloss and light contamination.

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Surface science & materials

Surface preparation

Surface preparation includes cleaning, degreasing and mechanical decontamination where required.

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Surface science & materials

Surface processes

Surface processes comprise the coordinated paint and care steps carried out on a vehicle.

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Surface science & materials

UV protection

UV protection reduces fading and oxidation caused by sunlight.

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Surface science & materials

Vehicle care

Vehicle care covers cleaning, protection and maintenance processes for a vehicle's interior and exterior.

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Surface science & materials

Vehicle detailing

Vehicle detailing covers professional cleaning, care and protection. It includes paint correction, interior cleaning, polishing, protection and odour treatment.

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Surface science & materials

Wipe-down

A wipe-down degreases the paint surface before a sealant is applied.

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