Nanomaterial technology applications in coatings

Nanomaterial technology is receiving a great deal of attention in the coatings industry today. Several approaches within this technology can be used to achieve organic-inorganic nanocomposite or nanostructured coatings. These approaches include incorporation of preformed nanoparticles in organic resin systems, in-situ generation of nanoparticles or nanophases, and other nanostructuring mechanisms. Following an overview of benefits and critical issues of nanomaterial technology, this article reviews advancements in the application of nanomaterial technology to coatings. Several commercial applications of the technology are described.