Coating is an advanced manufacturing process that deposits microscopic thin films on substrates through physical or chemical methods. These nano-to-micron scale layers act as "functional skins", transforming surface properties without altering the base material's core characteristics.

Scientific Principle

The essence lies in precisely controlling atomic/molecular arrangement on surfaces. Through vacuum particle bombardment, vapor deposition, or liquid-phase reactions, engineered surface layers with tailored composition and structure are created at atomic scale. This surface engineering enables directional modulation of optical, electrical, mechanical, and chemical properties.

Technical Approaches

Mainstream coating technologies include:

Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD): Transfers target atoms to substrates via evaporation, sputtering, or ion plating in vacuum;

Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD): Forms solid films through gas-phase chemical reactions;

Solution-based Coating: Creates functional layers via electroplating, electroless plating, or spin coating.

Value Proposition

Coating technology resolves conflicts between bulk material properties and specialized requirements through surface functionalization:

Function Integration: Multilayer coatings on glass combine conductivity with anti-reflection;

Performance Enhancement: Diamond-like coatings multiply tool hardness without compromising toughness;

Hybrid Innovation: Metal oxide coatings on flexible polymers create bendable transparent electrodes.