Protective Coatings Industry
The total annual U.S. cost for organic and metallic protective coatings is $108.6 billion, according to a NACE study. The study estimates that 50% of all corrosion costs are preventable, and approximately 85% of these are in the area of coatings.
Protective coatings, including paints, are thin layers of solid material applied to a substrate, with the coating acting as a barrier to inhibit or prevent corrosion. Each liquid, liquefiable, or mastic composition is converted into a solid protective, decorative, or functional adherent film after application to a surface. These coatings may be sprayed on, welded on, plated on, or applied using hand tools.
Besides corrosion resistance, protective coatings can help a substrate withstand issues such as wear and exposure to water. They can also improve the asset’s aesthetic appearance.
Materials commonly used in organic coatings are epoxies, polyurethanes, or other polymers. Meanwhile, materials typically found in inorganic metallic coatings include zinc, aluminum, and chromium.
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