Many issues inherent in liquid finishing are eliminated or minimized with the powder coating process.  Liquid finishes contain solvents, which have pollutants known as volatile organic compounds (VOCs).  Powder coatings contain no solvents and releases negligible amounts of, if any, VOCs into the atmosphere.  Thus, there is no longer a need for finishers to buy costly pollution control equipment, and companies can comply more easily and economically with the regulations of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Powder coating is a clean process.  In fact, one of the major elements in expanding the market for powder coating has been the implementation of stringent air pollution control legislation over the past 30 years.  In addition, the increased efficiencies of applying a powder coating generally produce lower operating costs.  For example, powder coating overspray that does not adhere to the part can be retrieved and reused.  The unused powder is reclaimed by a recovery unit and returned to a feed hopper for reuse.  Any powder waste that results is minimal, and can be disposed of easily, economically, and safely.