SolGel Coatings

Nanoparticles Form a Ceramic Surface 

The term Sol-Gel comes from the production process itself: inorganic nanoparticles are dispersed in a liquid, known as a “Sol.” A familiar example of a “Sol” is ink in an inkjet printer, where carbon particles are dispersed in a fluid. During the Sol-Gel process, the particles bond together into a gel-like, three-dimensional network — the “Gel.” During subsequent curing, the gel solidifies and develops its final performance properties. The curing step can be adjusted depending on the formulation and the desired end result. Depending on the specific Sol-Gel system applied, the substrate can be given properties such as increased temperature resistance, scratch and wear resistance, particle-repellent or self-cleaning behavior, reduced conductivity, as well as non-stick and anti-reflective effects. Sol-Gel coatings can be either transparent or coloured. 

Innovative Applications Using Sol-Gel

Sol-Gel is spray-applied and can be deposited in extremely thin layers. It offers excellent adhesion and a very durable surface. Because Sol-Gel cures at lower temperatures than many other coating technologies, it becomes possible to treat thin components and temperature-sensitive materials such as aluminium, brass, semiconductors, glass and composites. Today, Sol-Gel coatings are used in a wide range of applications, including solar panels, irons, stovetops, UV-protective and self-cleaning panels, sensors, anti-reflection treatments and semiconductor components. At Bakers Coating, we find that Sol-Gel is ideal when you want to:

• Increase temperature resistance
• Improve surface hardness and scratch resistance
• Provide corrosion protection
• Create non-stick surfaces
• Apply anti-reflective properties
• Enable self-cleaning behaviour
• Reduce electrical conductivity