For the strictest requirements for surface tension, we offer you the arcosil® process, a silica coating method that ensures optimal and long-lasting improvement of wettability and adhesion to surfaces.
The silica coating process is a further development of flame treatment. Here, a slightly volatile silane compound is added to the flame (i.e. the fuel gas-air mixture) in a low concentration. The silicate produced in the flame is deposited on the surface. The resulting silicate layer forms an optimal adhesive base for stable and durable adhesion.
Arcosil® is our proven silane precursor for silica coating surfaces. The feed into the flame is user-friendly via a silane dosing unit. This ensures uniform application on the treated substrate.
The silica coating ensures optimum adhesive strength
The silane burns in the flame to form silicate (SiOx, x≈2) and forms a thin invisible layer, only a few nanometres thick, on the surface to be treated. The layer increases the long-term stability of the activation. Moreover, the silicate layer prevents the diffusion of oxygen and moisture. Thus the corrosion of metal, for example, can be largely suppressed.
The process is used in particular when tougher requirements are placed on the adhesion of finishing coats; e.g. moisture resistance or corrosion protection. Good results are obtained in metals (e.g. aluminium, copper), glass and also plastics.
In any case, as with normal flame treatment, the optimal settings should be determined through testing. Our laboratory is at your disposal for this purpose. Alternatively, we also offer you laboratory equipment for purchase, so that you can carry out fast tests yourself at any time. A quick check of the treatment result is also possible with our arcotest® test inks.
When exactly is silane flame treatment used?
As already mentioned, this is mainly a process for the pre-treatment of metallic and glass-like substrates.
