What is Sol-Gel coating?

What is Sol-Gel coating?

Sol-Gel, (otherwise known as Ceramic) materials are formed from small inorganic particles suspended in solution that gel together to form an inorganic matrix.

Sol-Gel technology was first introduced around 20 years ago, these non-stick ceramic coatings come in several proprietary blends, and can vary slightly, but they’re all inorganic. Generally mineral based, no carbon is used in the processing. The coating is mostly composed of silicon and oxygen and is applied as a single layer over the substrate, producing 50% less carbon dioxide in processing compared to PTFE. For this reason Sol-Gel is considered to be more environmentally friendly, in addition to the more “natural” ingredients used. Sol-Gel coatings are also PFAS free.

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) such as PTFE are man-made chemical compounds, they are made up of a chain of linked carbon and fluorine atoms. Because the carbon-fluorine bond is one of the strongest, these chemicals do not degrade in the environment. 

Both PTFE and Sol-Gel have excellent characteristics, however, Sol-Gel forms a very thin layer of 35 µ ± 5, yet a very hard (9H Pencil hardness) surface.

Sol-Gel can be applied to most metallic substrates such as Aluminium, Stainless Steel, and Iron. It is a completely incombustible coating: it does not generate toxic gases when heated; and can be used at high temperatures.

The F-LON^® 9000 series is predominantly inorganic coating with a backbone comprising the elements silicon (Si) and oxygen (O), it has excellent non-stick and superior abrasion resistance at high temperatures. It also exhibits a high level of hardness, heat dissipation, and is capable of corrosion & chemical resistance.

Key features are:

• High heat resistance (450°C)
• Extremely hard (up to 9H)
• Exceptional wear resistance
• Good corrosion resistance and/or anti-fouling properties
• Stain resistance and good clean-ability (equivalent to a vitreous enamel)
• Low coefficient of friction
• Higher heat transfer coefficient
• Excellent Nonstick
• FDA Compliant
• PTFE Free
• PFAS Free - Zero PFOA / APFO / C8 (or analogues thereof)

Typical applications include:

• Whitegoods and their accessories
• Cookware
• Bakeware 
• Heating elements
• Electronic equipment for heat dissipation and electrical insulative properties

To find out more about our Sol-Gel/Ceramic coatings or to discuss your requirements, drop us an email info@fluorocarbon.co.uk