European Coatings: The research and application prediction of functional coatings is very optimistic

"In terms of functional coatings that have been developed, efforts are expected to overcome the challenges that will improve market preparedness," said Dr. Eva García-Lecina. "We interviewed the Director of Surface Engineering at Cidetec to understand current trends and developments.
of these coatings are currently the focus of research?
Eva García-Lecina: "
Research currently focuses on developing custom features not found in traditional protective or trybic coatings, such as anti-pollution, scratch-resistant, anti-fog, anti-ice, easy-to-clean, self-healingor anti-glare properties driven by new markets and demand
China
. For example, in the automotive sector, the widespread introduction of touch-screen monitors and displays has facilitated the development of anti-glare and fingerprint-resistant transparent coatings that combine hydrophobic and oil-free properties. In addition, the increasing combination of vehicle sensing systems as radar covers and cameras has facilitated the study of coatings with radar transparency, ice and dust protection, which protect and do not interfere with the function of the system. On the other hand, the trend toward shared mobility presents new challenges in dealing with cleaning issues, driving new research on easy-to-clean and antibacterial coatings.
In aviation, functional coatings are focused on a variety of properties, such as anti-pollution coatings and cleaning solutions for laminated wings, which can reduce insect build-up or prevent ice-resistant intelligent coatings from forming on aircraft wings, helping to reduce emissions and noise pollution.
what features do you think are most likely to prepare the market?
Eva García-Lecina is
CIDETEC Surface Engineering Director
García-Lecina
: There is already a range of functional coatings on the market, covering self-cleaning, ice, antibacterial or fingerprint protection. However, although the functionality of these coatings has been successfully demonstrated, there are some disadvantages that hinder their widespread use and their suitability for certain applications. For example, further research is needed to increase the control, maintenance and long-term stability of certain formulations, and to develop easy-to-apply and repeatable applications to improve the mechanical durability of coatings and make technology more cost-effective. On the other hand, new coating features require new test protocols and equipment that have not yet been fully developed.
you see an overall trend in functional coatings?
research and application forecasts for functional
coatings are very optimistic for the next few years, said García-Lecina, a professor at the University of New York. With regard to functional coatings that have been developed, it is expected that efforts will be made to overcome the challenges already listed, which will increase market readiness for innovation. In addition, the overall trend is to envision the search for more ecological and bio-based formulations, combined with the search for versatile features that can help meet new market demands and improve social health.