As the aerospace (AS) industry pushes for next-generation surface coating technologies to protect materials exposed to harsh air and space environments, coatings manufacturers dive deep to provide higher-performing coatings. The global aerospace coatings market in 2021 was valued at USD 2.15 billion and is estimated to grow with a CAGR of 5.2% through 2030. Some investment is earmarked for research and development to replace chemicals of high concern, and innovation to support the protection of advanced aerospace materials. This article discusses current and future aerospace coating technologies to protect modern air and spacecraft.
The potential for mechanical functions to be affected by corrosion in aerospace is not a matter of if, but rather when corrosion will impact those functions. To counter the high stakes that aerospace corrosion presents, mission-critical applications require the most innovative, comprehensive, and reliable coating technologies available. Additionally, it is vital to continually invest in developing more high-performing chemical technology as it becomes available.