Which statement best describes the initial action of a wax-type paint stripper?

Which statement best describes the initial action of a wax-type paint stripper?

• A. The solvent penetrates the enamel and primers to expand them so they break their bond with the metal.
• B. The wax holds the solvents against the surface and prevents evaporation.
• C. After the bond has been broken, the wax gets between the film and the metal and prevents re-sticking.
• D. The wax acts as a detergent to rinse paint away.

Answer: (A)

The first thing a wax-type paint stripper does is keep the solvent pressed against the painted surface. The wax holds the solvents against the film and prevents them from evaporating, which gives the solvent time to act on the paint. As contact continues, the solvent can penetrate and soften or swell the enamel and primers, weakening their bond to the metal. Once the bond is compromised, the wax layer can then position itself between the film and the metal to prevent re-sticking during removal. So, the initial action is the solvent being held against the surface by the wax, not the subsequent swelling and debonding described in the other statements.

The first thing a wax-type paint stripper does is keep the solvent pressed against the painted surface. The wax holds the solvents against the film and prevents them from evaporating, which gives the solvent time to act on the paint. As contact continues, the solvent can penetrate and soften or swell the enamel and primers, weakening their bond to the metal. Once the bond is compromised, the wax layer can then position itself between the film and the metal to prevent re-sticking during removal. So, the initial action is the solvent being held against the surface by the wax, not the subsequent swelling and debonding described in the other statements.