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Surface and coating analysis is important in the automotive or sanitary sector, for example, as it is not just about appearance, but also about protection against corrosion, for example. The analysis of process baths also plays an important role here.
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Coatings can be roughly divided into four categories: no coating, metallic coating, organic coating, and conversion and conversion layers. Metallic layers are applied to a substrate chemically or electrochemically from metal-containing salt baths. Organic layers or lacquers are applied either by dipping, powdering or spraying.
Conversion coatings are created by a chemical or electrochemical reaction between the metal surface and a treatment solution, forming a top layer. Part of the substrate is converted in the process. Typical examples are anodising, phosphating or chromating. These conversion coatings can either serve as a separate layer or as an adhesive base for further coating. For all coating systems, a distinction is made between whether technical or optical requirements are to be met.
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Coatings fulfil very different functions. They can be technically necessary and therefore more functional, or they can have a visual appeal. A distinction is also made between metallic and organic layers (paint). In general, coating means that a substrate is covered with a material. The coating can be applied electrolytically, by dipping, brushing, gluing or spraying.
In the case of functional coatings, the substrate must be protected from external influences. Classic technical coatings include hard chrome, chemical nickel, zinc and zinc alloy coatings, cathodic electrocoating and powder coating. Decorative coatings are more for aesthetic purposes. Examples of decorative coatings include bright chrome, gold and silver coatings, and coloured lacquers.
