Characterization and application of hybrid coatings

One specific application of ORMOCER^® materials (hybrid polymers) is functional coatings that impart new and improved properties to the underlying substrates. Based on the principles of ORMOCER^® materials, protective and functional coatings can be tailored to meet the different requirements of our customers. By combining the glass-like material properties with the advantages of organic polymers, new and innovative surface functionalizations are possible.

Almost all substrates starting from glass and metals, fossil and bio-based plastics, fibers like paper and textiles can be coated. The substrates can be equipped with a protective and several functional layers that make the surface, for example, scratch-resistant, hydrophobic or impermeable to water and oxygen.

ORMOCER® coatings

The ORMOCER^® coating materials can be applied to 2D flat substrates as well as to 3D geometries using almost all conventional application methods for wet-chemical coatings. Examples are dip-, knife, spray or spin coating. Slot die or gravure roller applications can be used as roll-to-roll processes. After application this is usually followed by curing, during which the polymerizable groups fixed to the inorganic network react. Current methods are thermal and UV-initiated curing.