21 Apr Chemist’s Corner: Ceramic Coatings & UV Resistance
Let’s get into the lab.
That cold season is behind us, which means the warm weather is ramping up! The sun is shining and the weather is warm. With the sun being out in full force, the UV rays are quick to follow. For the detailers and car fanatics, this can raise many questions about ceramic coatings. DuraSlic’s data and research-driven team has the answers.
What are UV Rays?
UV, short for ultraviolet rays, are short wavelengths of electromagnet radiation. The majority of UV rays come straight from the sun, but they’re also present in tanning beds. While they’re not directly harmful, prolonged exposure can cause sunburns on skin. In fact, lots of things can be harmed by UV rays. So what about a ceramic coating? Is DuraSlic UV-resistant? Let’s take a deeper dive. 
The Chemistry
How exactly is our ceramic coating “UV resistant?” It starts with the research and chemistry that our team in the lab works around the clock on. DuraSlic’s coatings are all made from a silicon-based polymer, which has a much higher resistance to chemical and environmental hazards compared to carbon. UV rays produce what are called free radicals that break up carbon-to-carbon bonds. Because of the silicon-based polymer, UV rays have a much tougher time breaking up the chemical bonds found inside DuraSlic 1500 and Xtreme. 
Our Testing Process
How does our chemistry team put DuraSlic to the test? It starts with coating a test panel with our ceramic coating. The test panel is already painted with automotive paint with clear coat, in order to simulate real world conditions. The panel is then sent to an independent laboratory and placed into an environmental chamber that doses UV light and moisture. The entire test procedure conforms to an ASTM specification, so each test can be compared. As the coating is exposed to these elements, the test team is closely monitoring how the coating resists the UV rays. Periodically, the team pulls the panel out to get a closer look at the coating’s performance. The test is run for a specified number of hours, depending on the particular requirement.
We’re always hard at work to make our products better, and our team in the lab plays a crucial role in doing so. Our ability to combine our proven chemistry with decades detailing experience is what makes us unique. Stay tuned for more innovative products coming in the near future! 