GLASS-CERAMIC COATINGS FOR EXTENDED PERFORMANCE

Many materials have admirable bulk properties for a given application but their surfaces are incompatible and require some form of barrier coating. Glass-ceramic coatings are easily produced - generally by the application of a glass which is then converted to a glass-ceramic of superior properties by a heat treatment proces. By careful adjustment of glass composition and thermal history, the phase content and microstructure of the glass-ceramic can be tailored to give particular values of desired physical properties. The design of such coatings and the requirements for good adhesive strength are reviewed with reference to electrical and mechanical applications.