mineral hardness of 7 on Mohs scale
from space shuttle technology
with substrates at the atomic level
This is the name given to glass like sealants and are used to improve the shine and harden a painted surface. The name is derived from the use of silica, a component used in the manufacture of ceramic and glass products. In nature silica is most commonly found as quartz (SiO2) and in its purest state has a mineral hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale (1-10). A diamond measured on the same scale is 10. The perception of ceramics is that they are opaque and white in colour, but this is not always the case as ceramics exist in a variety of compositions and colours with a wide range of molecular structures.
Ceramic coatings are a spin off from the technology N.A.S.A. devised from the ceramic-based paints used on space shuttles for their heat insulation and anti-corrosion properties. Ceramic technology made its way into the automotive care market where they offer a much higher level of protection from various elements. Unlike carnauba waxes, ceramic coatings are inorganic. As such they can be manufactured to be resistant to far higher temperatures than carnauba.
Most modern ceramic coatings are typically based on nano-technology. Nano-technology based ceramic coatings offer protection against high levels of pH, extremes of temperature and physical contact from washing and cleaning. Ceramic coatings offer automotive surfaces protection from acid rain, freezing rain, harsh wash chemicals, direct sunlight and even from light swirls (usually caused by poor washing techniques). They form strong chemical bonds with substrates at the atomic level so these coatings cannot be removed using paint cleaners or pressure washers; that is, they will not wash away. Ceramic coatings are extremely durable, optically clear, and provide a high level of shine, particularly effective on metallic paintwork where the metal flake ‘pops’ brilliantly.
Their use is not limited to paintwork: ceramic coatings are also available for glass, where their hydrophobic properties are of particular benefit; plastics, where their resistance to UV is beneficial, and also on alloy wheels, where their slick nature and resilience to heat help repel damaging brake dust particles.
The preparation to the painted surface requires the paintwork to be in perfect condition prior to application. Any scratches and swirls in the paintwork need to be removed because once the coating has cured, these imperfections are sealed beneath the ceramic coating.
All surfaces to be coated also need to be properly decontaminated and cleansed, ensuring they are completely free from any residues that may interfere with the chemical bonding process. The cleaner the substrate, the higher the number of chemical bonds the sealant can form.
Temperature, humidity and environment all have to be controlled in order for the sealants to provide their maximum protection. Once applied, the ceramic sealants we use are guaranteed by the manufacturer for between two to nine years.
You will never need to wax again, and you will have a lasting shine. Your car will also be protected from harmful elements, such as UV, acid rain and environmental factors.