[GregT]

Anodizing would make the surface less "shiny". Anodizing itself does not color parts, but is used to protect aluminum by making it's surface harder (puts a coat of aluminum oxide on). Color can be added because anodized aluminum is more porous then normal Al (which is also why it loses some of its reflective properties). [Someone correct me if anything I said above is wrong].

You don’t need special equipment to anodize aluminum, but it involves a strong acid (the sulfuric acid that’s in your car battery would work) so it needs to be done by someone with experience (sort of like welding).

Yan, I think spray paint leaves an ok finish, isn't that what was used on last year's robot?

Greg