Introduction
Coating materials are made with a unique combination of materials specially formulated and applied for their ability to control corrosion and provide long lasting protection in the most challenging environments. The goal of coating materials is to protect the underlying substrate from corrosion, corrosion fatigue, erosion, abrasion, and other environmental factors. Due to the wide range of coating materials available on the market, choosing the right product is critical to ensuring the best protection.
Types of Coating Materials
Coating materials can be divided into three main categories, namely metallic, organic and inorganic coatings. Metallic coatings, such as zinc, are a popular choice for corrosion protection, as they are capable of forming an electrochemical barrier between the underlying substrate and the environment. Organic coatings, or paints, are used to create a durable film to limit water and oxygen intrusion, while also providing aesthetics. Inorganic coatings are often the choice when high chemical resistance and mechanical properties are needed, such as in mining and aerospace applications.
Performance Characteristics of Coating Materials
Coating materials must be able to withstand a range of environmental conditions in order to provide adequate protection for the underlying substrate. The most common performance attributes to consider when selecting a coating material include corrosion resistance, chemical resistance, abrasion resistance, temperature resistance, impact resistance and flexural strength. Corrosion resistance is the ability of the coating to resist attack from chemical or electrochemical sources. Chemical resistance indicates the degree to which the coating may resist attack from specific chemicals or solvents. Abrasion resistance is the ability of the coating to resist surface wear due to continuous friction and pressure. Temperature resistance is the ability of the coating to withstand extreme temperatures, either in short duration or long duration events. Impact resistance describes the capability of the coating to absorb sudden and dynamic shock, while flexural strength represents the maximum load that the coating can withstand before its physical properties deteriorate.
Conclusion
Coating materials are designed to protect the underlying substrate from deterioration due to a variety of environmental factors. The right product must be chosen to ensure the best protection, which will depend on the substrate and conditions it is exposed to. Metallic, organic and inorganic coatings each have their own advantages and limitations, and performance characteristics such as corrosion resistance, chemical resistance, abrasion resistance, temperature resistance, impact resistance and flexural strength must be considered when selecting a coating material. Ultimately, the best coating material depends on the application, and professionals should always follow guidelines provided by the coating manufacturer.
