Which statement about primers and chromate materials is true?

• A. Primers do not contain chromate materials
• B. Primers contain chromate materials
• C. Primers are used on wood only
• D. Primers are used after topcoat

Answer: (B)

Chromate-containing primers are used to protect metal surfaces from corrosion and to improve adhesion for the rest of the coating system. The chromate pigments, such as zinc chromate, release compounds that form a protective film on the metal and inhibit rust formation, while also helping the subsequent coats bond better. That’s why this statement is true: primers do contain chromate materials to provide corrosion resistance and a good base for the topcoat. Primers aren’t limited to wood; they’re applied to metal and other substrates as the first layer. And they’re applied before the topcoat, not after, since the primer’s job is to prepare and protect the surface for the final paint layer.