metalliccoated

Metalliccoated describes a surface that has received a thin layer of metal applied by deposition or plating to improve properties such as corrosion resistance, hardness, electrical conductivity, or appearance. The coating is usually designed to be continuous and adherent to the substrate, while remaining distinct from the underlying material in composition and sometimes in color or reflectivity.

Common metallic coating methods include electroplating, where metal ions are reduced onto the surface from an electrolyte; electroless plating, which deposits metal without an external current; physical vapor deposition (PVD) and chemical vapor deposition (CVD); and thermal spray processes. Other approaches include hot-dip galvanizing for iron and steel, and electrochemical or sputtering techniques depending on the application.

Coating materials vary widely and include nickel, chromium, copper, zinc, tin, aluminum, silver, gold, and ceramic-like nitrides such as titanium nitride used in wear-resistant coatings. Substrates range from steel and aluminum to plastics and ceramics, with adhesion promoters and surface pretreatments often required to ensure lasting bonds.

Applications span automotive components, fasteners, tooling, electrical connectors, cookware, architectural hardware, medical devices, and consumer electronics. Benefits typically include improved corrosion resistance, reduced wear, lower friction, enhanced surface hardness, electrical conductivity, and aesthetic finishes. Limitations may involve coating thickness control, potential diffusion or delamination at high temperatures, and cost considerations.

Quality assessment uses measurements of thickness by X-ray fluorescence or profilometry, adhesion tests, porosity checks, and surface roughness evaluations. Environmental and regulatory concerns may include the management of hazardous substances (for example, chromium VI in chrome plating) and compliance with RoHS and REACH directives.