metalliseeritud

Metalliseeritud (from the Estonian verb *metalliseerima*, meaning "to metallize") refers to the process of applying a metallic coating to a surface, typically through techniques such as electroplating, thermal spraying, or physical vapor deposition. This treatment enhances the material’s properties, such as durability, conductivity, corrosion resistance, or aesthetic appeal.

In industrial applications, metallized surfaces are commonly used in electronics, automotive parts, and architectural coatings. For example, electroplating is widely employed to coat metal components with thin layers of gold, silver, or chromium for improved conductivity or wear resistance. Thermal spraying, another method, involves projecting molten metal particles onto a substrate, creating a thicker, more durable coating suitable for high-stress environments.

The term is also used in the context of solar energy, where metallized surfaces—such as those on photovoltaic panels—help reflect or absorb light efficiently. In art and design, metallization can be applied to plastics or ceramics to achieve a metallic finish without the weight or cost of solid metal.

While metallization improves functionality, it requires careful control of thickness, adhesion, and material compatibility to ensure long-term performance. Poor execution may lead to peeling, corrosion, or reduced effectiveness. Advances in nanotechnology have further refined metallization techniques, enabling finer coatings and specialized applications in fields like biomedical devices and flexible electronics.