New Coating Technologies: What’s on the Horizon?

As with all industries, the coating industry is constantly changing and on the lookout for new innovations. Many of those innovations come down to technology. The fact is that coating is a key part of manufacturing a variety of different products. Ergo, we in the industry appreciate more efficient and effective new coating technologies, taking advantage of them whenever we can.

But certainly, efficiency isn’t the only reason why we seek out new coating technologies. We’re also looking for true innovation, ways that coatings can become harder, more durable, better at protecting the products to which we apply them. Sustainability is another key concern; the more sustainable coatings and coating technologies become, the easier it is for us to use them.

With that in mind, let’s explore the ins and outs of new coating technologies—what’s on the horizon, and what’s making waves right now?

What trends should we look out for regarding new coating technologies?

As always, there are some trends to keep in mind regarding new coating technologies. Some of these are about advancing formulas and equipment standards—while others are about adjusting to changing societal circumstances. Sometimes, the reasons why we update industrial coating technologies simply have to do with client demand.

When it comes to coating technologies, expect the unexpected.

With that in mind, some of the trends you may want to keep in mind include:

• Nano technology

We know that nanostructures and nanomaterials may sound space age right now, but they’re actually more attainable than you think—and they’re affecting new coating technologies in the near future (and in some cases, right now). To put it in laymen’s terms, nanomaterials are typically more reactive than standard materials. They cover more of a surface area, certainly in comparison to the volume of an area. We can’t be certain of potential capabilities of nanomaterials and nanostructures—but suggestions arose recently, indicating that dental coatings made with nanotechnologies could be self-repairing. These updates could be game-changing—and for some, life changing.

• Faster manufacturing times

The reality is that no matter how advanced the coating technology, it’s not going to make an impact as quickly if it’s not manufactured in a timely manner. As such, manufacturers jump at the chance to adopt smart technologies and processes. It’s estimated that by 2026, smart factories will drive the competition. Smart factories will utilize not only digital processing but artificial intelligence, speeding up not only robotic procedures but human ones as well. This won’t just speed up processing in general, but complex processing specifically.

• Space communication

This might sound strange at first glance, but there’s a reason why we’re bringing up technology that is quite literally space age. Technology in general has often been driven by the space age, and the anticipation of it becoming a reality. New coating technologies are no different. As we make new space satellites—and become reliant on them for vital information—those satellites must be able to withstand extreme temperatures and weather conditions. That will require advanced coating technology. As such, new advances in space communication will naturally drive those technologies.

• Pandemic prep

The fact of the matter is, the pandemic has changed almost everything about modern life in some way—and coating is no different. Manufacturers recognize the instability of the supply chain, and how easily it can face disruption, due to the disruption of the pandemic. Furthermore, another pandemic is inevitable, perhaps in our lifetimes. The industry has responded with novel decontamination systems, as well as coatings with antiviral alloys. Not only is the industry taking important measures to prevent a resurgence: it’s also finding new opportunities.

What’s up next for coating technologies?

Even for us, it’s difficult to predict exactly what will happen in the coating industry. However, we can take notice of a few things as we forecast.

For one thing, sales within the coating industry in general currently surpass their status pre-pandemic. While sales did take a hit during the pandemic—an issue many industries experienced—the coating industry rebounded quickly and intensely. This covers virtually every “subsection” of coating. From construction coatings to wood coatings and energy-related coatings, we’re seeing this trend, suggesting that it will hopefully continue in the near future.

Additionally, sustainability is something we’re considering in the future. Take marine coatings, for example. These coatings can have a direct impact on the environment. For that matter, in the past coatings like these were more easily affected by the ecosystems within which they worked. Coatings constantly exposed to saltwater were corroding too quickly, leaving vessels unprotected.

If you’re looking for advice about new coating technologies, you’ve come to the right place. At CTI, it’s our priority to stay on top of trends, and as up to date as possible in terms of what we use and what we advise clients and business owners in general to use. Navigating coating trends can be tricky at first. But once you get the hang of it, you won’t just be using the best possible products—you’ll have the best possible results in the long term.

Ready to learn more about these trends? Contact us here, or give us a call at 419-924-5566. We’re happy to introduce you to the world of coating. Or, update you on what’s happened recently, and what we expect to happen in the future. It’s always a good idea to stay current!