While the world of technology is revolutionizing everyday, automobiles and technical products are no less behind.

In this article, we will discuss how graphene is proving to be the future element of the automotive coatings industry. Graphene is a low-cost element that can prevent corrosion and rusting for longer periods and enhance the durability and lifespan of just any product. Graphene exhibits chemical and physical properties that make it an excellent conductor and an anti-corrosive agent.

Introduction

In the following detailed article, we will discuss exactly what properties make it an element of choice. And above all the cost-effectiveness of graphene adds to the long list of its benefits.

An Overview of Graphene

Graphene is a single layer (monolayer) of carbon atoms, tightly bound in a hexagonal honeycomb lattice. It is an allotrope of carbon in the form of a plane of sp2-bonded atoms with a molecular bond length of 0.142 nanometers. Graphene layers stacked on top of each other form graphite with an interplanar distance of 0.335 nanometers. Individual layers of graphene in graphite are held together by van der Waals forces, which can be overcome during the exfoliation of graphene from graphite.

Graphene is the thinnest compound known to man at a thickness of one atom, the lightest material known (with 1 square meter weighing approximately 0.77 milligrams), the strongest compound discovered (100-300 times stronger than steel with a tensile strength of 130 GPa and Young's modulus of 1 TPa - 150 000,000 psi), the best conductor of heat at room temperature (at (4.84±0.44) × 10^3 to (5.30±0.48) × 10^3 Wm−1K−1) and also the best-known conductor of electricity (studies have shown electron mobility at values of more than 200,000 cm2V−1s−1). Other remarkable properties of graphene are its uniform absorption of light in the visible and near-infrared parts of the spectrum (πα ≈ 2.3%) and its potential suitability for use in spin transport.

When we realize this, it may surprise us that carbon is the second most abundant mass in the human body and the fourth most abundant element in the universe (by mass), after hydrogen, helium, and oxygen. This makes carbon the chemical basis of all known life on Earth, making graphene a potentially environmentally friendly and sustainable solution for an almost unlimited number of applications. Since its discovery and extraction, applications of graphene in various scientific disciplines have exploded with enormous benefits. Especially in high-frequency electronics, bio, chemical, and magnetic sensors, ultra-wide bandwidth photodetectors, and energy. storage and generation.

Challenges in Graphene Production

Initially, the only method to produce large-scale graphene was a very expensive and complex process (chemical vapor deposition, CVD), which involved using toxic chemicals to grow graphene as a monolayer by exposing platinum, nickel, or titanium carbide to ethylene or carbide, or benzene at high temperatures. There were no alternatives to using crystalline epitaxy on anything other than a metal substrate. These manufacturing problems made graphene initially unavailable for developmental research and commercial use. Also, the use of CVD graphene in electronics has been hampered by the difficulty of removing graphene layers from a metal substrate without damaging the graphene.

However, studies in 2012 found that by analyzing the adhesive energy of graphene at the interface, it is possible to effectively separate the graphene from the metal plate on which it is grown, while also allowing the plate to be reused for future applications a theoretically infinite number of times. reducing the toxic waste previously created in the process. Furthermore, the quality of the graphene that was separated using this method was high enough to create molecular electronic devices.

Research into CVD graphene growth has since advanced by leaps and bounds, making graphene quality less of an issue for technology adoption, which is now driven by the price of the underlying metal substrate. Nevertheless, research is still ongoing to consistently fabricate graphene on custom substrates with control over impurities such as corrugations, doping levels, and domain size, while controlling the number and relative crystallographic orientation of graphene layers.

Protective Coatings for Car Care

Protective coating technology for professional car care has evolved tremendously over time. First, our industry depended on wax, then on paint sealants. Innovative SIO2 and graphene technologies are now transforming the industry.

Today, ceramic and graphene coatings are two of the most durable technologies available to protect your vehicle's paint. Choosing between the two can seem difficult, but today we're going to help you decide. To compare ceramic coatings and graphene coatings, we need to focus on the main defining characteristics of both technologies including durability, gloss, hydrophobicity, price, cost, and ease of application.

Graphene coatings claim to offer good to great durability and are less susceptible to water stains than ceramic coatings, while ceramic coatings are typically cheaper and more readily available. Both ceramic and graphene coatings are similar in terms of gloss, hydrophobicity, and method of application. With these features in mind, the decision seems more difficult. Understanding more about the two technologies can greatly increase your confidence in choosing one over the other.

To find out more, you can read Use of Graphene-Based Materials in Anti-Corrosion Coatings.

Ceramic Coatings

Ceramic coatings were designed as a semi-permanent wax replacement technology that provides UV and environmental protection to automotive surfaces. These coatings would cross-link and covalently bond to painted surfaces upon installation, sealing them at a molecular level and creating a hydrophobic barrier between the vehicle and the environment.

These coatings are primarily made of variants of silicon, silicon dioxide, or other forms of silicates. (Sio2) This component provides a better form of protection than conventional carnauba waxes or polymer-based sealants in its ability to resist weathering or degradation. This was a huge change in the industry and opened the door for both detailers and hobbyists to significantly improve their detailing regime.

Graphene Coating

Graphene coating is an evolution of ceramic coating technology. Utilizing the latest graphene-based technology to create a stronger, more durable coating that is easier to apply. Additionally, since graphene is a less reactive component, graphene-based coatings are less susceptible to staining or etching compared to ceramic-based chemicals.

How Graphene Coatings are Made?

It's technically a "hybrid" painting because it has to be formulated with other elements to be used as paint to put on your car. You can expect your graphene coating to last up to 5 years. Compared to ceramic coatings, graphene coating performs exceptionally well in many areas such as water stain resistance, water repellency on contact, and surface hardness.

How does Graphene Differ from Conventional Ceramic Coatings?

There are quite a few similarities with ceramic coatings. For example, graphene also uses nanotechnology to bond to your vehicle's paint, providing sealing and protection at a molecular level. But what makes graphene coating a game changer? Ceramic coatings and graphene coatings protect against UV, water, dirt, and some contaminants, but graphene as being the strongest material on Earth, at the same time, it is one of the thinnest materials thanks to its one-atom structure. Thinner but stronger, is it possible? Yes!

Advantages of Graphene Coatings

Graphene coatings are surely worth it as it is a wonder material and its now finally accessible to the car care industry. The reason this coating outperforms every other coating is its physical characteristics. Graphene coating is very cost-effective and is most beneficial as compared to any other kind of coating. The application of the graphene coating is very easy and so is its maintenance.

There are various Advantages of Graphene Coatings and Some of them are as Followed

• Easy application.
• Anti-static = Car stays clean for a long time.
• High water contact angle (more beading)
• Less susceptible to chipping or cracking because of high flexibility.
• Unsurpassed durability (5-10 years)

Graphene has an extremely high slickness factor which enables it to be compared to some of the best sealants and coatings on the market. You will love graphene if the water beading effect is your favorite.

Relative Advantages of Graphene Coatings over Ceramic Coatings

• Longer durability.
• Reduction in the absorption of heat on the treated surfaces.
• Easier application process.
• Less prone to water spots.

How to Apply Graphene Coating?

1. Apply several drops of graphene coating to your applicator until evenly coated.

2. Start with the horizontal/upper surfaces first, apply in straight lines slightly overlapping from one line to the other. Work on small areas at a time about 3'x3' or the size of a door or half of a hood. Temperature and humidity will determine the allowable coverage areas between application and removal.

3. Applicators should glide smoothly over the surface while applying an even coat of paint. If the applicator begins to drag or the application becomes inconsistent, add more drops to the applicator.

4. Immediately after application you will notice a "Rainbow Effect" (predominant with dark colors) as the applied coating adheres to the surface. About 1-3 minutes after application, "Rainbow" will begin to turn into a mist/mist, indicating that the coating is ready to be removed. (Temperature and humidity will speed up the flash time. Test a small area first before moving on to the rest of the vehicle)

5. Using premium microfiber cloths (preferably our utility towels), wipe the part thoroughly to remove any remaining graphene coating. Your first wipe should remove about 80% of the residue, and your second wipe should remove the residue easily. Use small circular motions and little to no pressure when removing.

6. Repeat these steps as you move around the rest of the vehicle. Painting lacquer, plastics, paneling, and glass surfaces in the same way. When layering the paint, a minimum of one hour is required between coats.

7. Allow the coating to completely dry/cure for at least 48 hours before rewetting. The longer it stays dry the better as it will cure for about 5 days (you  can drive your car during this time).

Graphene vs. Ceramic Coatings: Which is Better?

Several Reasons Why Graphene Coatings are Better:

1. Graphene coating uses this innovative technology to create a formula that takes ceramic coatings to the next level.

2. Due to their graphene chemistry, these coatings are easier to apply while providing additional benefits and results.

3. With graphene coating, an incredibly high-performance coating can be expected that is in the top 99th percentile of gloss, with extremely high durability and incredible hydrophobic properties coupled with very, very easy maintenance and cleaning.

4. Increased resistance to water stains, etching, and other forms of damage that can be caused by the environment.

Ceramic vs Graphene

Hydrophobicity

Both the graphene and ceramic coating types are extremely hydrophobic and will sheet the water off the surface very quickly. A higher water contact angle is offered by the graphene coatings. This means that water doesn't stay on the surface as the beads roll off and sit a lot taller on the surface. It will be difficult for most people to differentiate between the hydrophobicity of ceramic coatings and good-quality graphene coatings. Typically, the water-repellency level will be determined by the coating's quality and not by whether it's ceramic or graphene.

Durability

The durability of both the graphene and ceramic coatings is incredible, most giving durability of at least 1-2 years. Durability is one reason why various car owners choose them over sealants and waxes, offering only months of protection versus years. There are various grades of graphene and ceramic coatings, all of which last for different periods. Most ceramic coatings last between two to five years. However, at least 5 years of durability is claimed by most of the graphene coatings, some even prolonging protection by 7 years.

Application

As compared to the sealants and waxes, the application is the area where the coatings fall short. Major preparation is needed for getting the best results by utilizing a coating and also one needs to be confident of the usage and application of the coating products. Typically, the coatings are applied as a result by professionals in a space that's covered and controlled by temperature. There are extremely few differences between the applications of ceramic and graphene. To apply a coating of either type, a bare paint surface is required. Thus, before the coating application, a thorough wash, decontamination, polish, and paint correction are important. Coatings should be implemented in a temperature-controlled environment like a garage. An applicator should be used to apply the coating, worked into the surface in small sections, leveled, and buffed when the coating has flashed.

Finish and Gloss

A wet-looking shine is typically offered by the graphene and ceramic coatings to the paintwork, like sealants. An extreme difference is present between the finish you get with a graphene coating and the finish with a ceramic coating. A wet, cold look is offered by both and upon finish, both look incredible. Well-preparation of the surface of the vehicle is the key to the perfect finish.

Graphene Ceramic Coating makes the car as new as it was when it was purchased. Scientifically, graphene is one of the world’s most durable, strongest, and thinnest materials. Graphene is inherently flexible as it easily adapts to the surroundings, making it perfect.

Slickness

An important factor in keeping the car clean is slickness. Muddy water and dirt will slide off instantly and more easily if the paint surface is slicker. There is a debate in the industry regarding ceramic or graphene as to which is slicker. The type of coating being used determines which is slicker. Some manufacturers may provide good graphene coating and bad ceramic coating and vice versa.

Water Spotting

It should be remembered that if left untreated, water leaves a deposit behind on any surface. Following rainfall, if the vehicle has been sitting out, water spots will happen. The coating can also be corroded by those water spots and the performance and durability can be impacted over time too. In water spotting, benefits are possessed by the graphene coatings over the ceramic. It is claimed that graphene coatings lower the temperature of the surface. All of this shows that the evaporation of water won't be this quick, allowing the water beads to roll off when you drive the car next instead of leaving behind the unsightly water spots.

Cost

Graphene coatings are newer to the market than ceramic coatings. As such, fewer brands offer graphene coatings leading to less variation in price and options. The variety of ceramic coatings on the market offers different levels of quality and durability. Budget-friendly ceramic coatings that offer shorter periods of durability are available, as well as extra durable, pricier versions.

Cost Expectations

• Ceramic coatings that last from 1-2 years are typically around $50+.
• Ceramic coatings that last from 2-5 years are typically around $100+.
• Graphene coatings that last upwards of 5 years are typically around $100+.

Availability

Generally, there are more varieties, types, price levels, and brands of ceramic coatings on the market. Graphene coatings offer fewer options currently.

To find out more, you can read Superlubricity & Graphene.

Which is the Best Option for Users?

Regardless of which one you choose, when applied correctly, you will experience a satisfying protective and attractive coating for your vehicle! Everyone from car detailing experts and DIY heroes agrees that Graphene Ceramic Coating is a game changer in the field of paint protection.

Maximum Anti-Static Characteristics

The enemy of your car is dust but the dust and other microparticles that leave behind an untouched paint surface can be repelled by the car because of the thermal and electrical conductivity characteristics of graphene.

Minimal Water Spotting

Coating's top layer is made more heat resistant by the combination of graphene and traditional ceramic coatings. It proves that there is no need of wasting money on the polishing of water spots that have already been etched into the surface of your car.

Extremely Hydrophobic Characteristics

A higher contact angle is possessed by graphene due to its chemical composition and honeycomb structure, as both make the water spots slide off easily on the surface as compared to the traditional coating. A surface having less water means less evaporation, meaning there would be no leftover pesky water spots on the hood of your car.

Quick Application

Installing a Graphene Ceramic Coating is quick, easy, and results in a durable finish to attain your prized four-wheeled possessions in hours if done at CarzSpa by trained professionals.

Anti-Abrasive

The sheen can be removed from your paint by the contribution of microscopic particles, insects, and dusty winds. Water flows off unimpeded due to the strength and sturdiness of graphene, thus maintaining your car paint’s glossiness and locking in.

Conclusion

Keeping in view the above-mentioned details it can be stated cautiously that graphene is a material that has properties beneficial to the next generation of technology. The above-drawn contrast between ceramic coatings and graphene-based coatings makes it clear that graphene is much more useful than any other metal with all its combined abilities. Hence, graphene is a product that can enhance the lifespan of car coatings.

To discover the latest articles in graphene coating, you can visit Blografi.

References

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Choosing the best protective coating for your vehicle: graphene vs. ceramic. (n.d.). Retrieved April 19, 2024, from https://www.carwash.com/choosing-best-protective-coating-vehicle-graphene-vs-ceramic/

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The Use of Graphene-Based Materials in Anti-Corrosion Coatings - Nanografi Nano Technology. (n.d.). Retrieved April 19, 2024, from https://nanografi.com/blog/the-use-of-graphenebased-materials-in-anticorrosion-coatings/

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