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Thin Film Coatings
Thin films are sophisticated layers of specific molecular compounds used for their ability to coat a surface and imbue it with special mechanical properties. Numerous substances can be used in such coatings, especially carbon, sulfur and transition metal compounds. Thin film materials are a major research area within the broader field of nanotechnology and are applied to new materials to help improve their performance when exposed to certain types of common mechanical stresses.
Tension and Thin Film Materials
Thin film coatings can be applied to combat tension forces that occur as a result of energy being applied simultaneously and in different directions to a particular substance or surface. Bridge cables and chandeliers experience ongoing tension. A thin film coating can be applied to such devices to help improve their resistance to mechanical failure when exposed to tension. Such coatings can actually lower the overall weight of a vehicle or structure like an airplane or bridge by improving its performance per pound.
Compressive Stress
Many materials must survive a great deal of compressive stress to function properly. Thin film coatings can help mitigate the mechanical stresses caused by compression. Compressive stress is particularly notable in high pressure environments such as those of submersible craft and blast chambers. Thin films can be applied to the surface of the materials exposed to these environments to help prevent mechanical failure due to crushing. Compressive forces are also present on roads, and modern road materials can be coated with thin films to improve their longevity.
Thin Films and Corrosion
Corrosion is one of the major chemical processes that alters the mechanical performance of any material that is susceptible to oxidation. Steel used in buildings is an excellent example of a common material that can be subjected to corrosion. Lightweight thin film coatings can be applied to vulnerable steel structures to resist the corrosive effects of water, oxygen, acid rain and salt. Such uses are particularly valuable in coastal areas where salt water is whipped up by the wind.