Cerakote® is a versatile ceramic-polymer coating known for its durability and resistance to various environmental factors. This polymer-ceramic composite coating is suitable for applications with a low-dimensional tolerance.

While often associated with metal applications, Cerakote can also be applied to plastic. However, the process requires careful consideration due to the unique properties of plastics. 

Understanding Cerakote

Cerakote is a thin-film coating that enhances the performance and aesthetics of different materials. It excels in abrasion resistance, chemical resistance, and UV stability. Unlike some coatings, Cerakote offers a wide range of colors and finishes, making it a popular choice for customization.

Several Cerakote series are available, each with specific properties. The H Series is a versatile option suitable for many plastics, while the C Series is designed for air-curing, making it ideal for heat-sensitive materials. The Elite Series offers enhanced performance characteristics but may require higher curing temperatures.

Can You Cerakote Plastic?

Cerakote can be applied to most substrates, including metals, glass, polymers, wood, and plastics. The application of Cerakote to plastic increases hardness, resists wear, and offers customization options.

Oven curing may be required depending on the materials. The Elite Series and H Series can be baked at lower temperatures for longer periods. The C Series is air-cured for use on fabrics, electronics, and other temperature-sensitive materials.

Challenges of Cerakoting Plastic

The process of Cerakoting plastic can present various challenges:

• Material compatibility: Not all plastics are suitable for Cerakoting. Some plastics may not bond well with the coating or may be damaged by the curing process.
• Heat sensitivity: Many plastics are heat-sensitive and cannot withstand the high temperatures required for curing some Cerakote series.
• Adhesion: Achieving proper adhesion can be difficult due to the smooth, nonporous surface of many plastics.
• Outgassing: Some plastics may release gases during the curing process, leading to bubbles or imperfections in the coating.

How Do You Cerakote Plastic? 

The preparation work is the same regardless of the curing method. Some plastics may be quickly flashed in an oven or oven-cured at low temperatures for a short time.

1. Preparation: Remove coatings, dirt, oils, and other contaminants with a degreasing agent.
2. Blast: Use a gentle blaster to remove sharp edges and bumps that may cause an uneven finish. Blow with a high-pressure air nozzle to remove any blasting dust. Apply a Cerakote-approved solvent after blasting.
3. Application technique: Shake the product to completely mix the coating. A single application of a 1.0 to 2.0 mil film thickness is recommended, starting with the most difficult surface to the easiest to reduce runs and excessive buildup. 
4. Curing process: Air dry and cure the object at the recommended cure temperature.
5. Coating choice: The C Series is air-cure ceramic designed for easy application and cured at room temperature. This coating becomes tack-free after one hour, dry after 24 hours, and fully cured after five days. H series coatings are durable, corrosion resistant, and provide high hardness and heat resistance levels. 
6. Spray equipment: Use a siphon-fed or gravity-fed detail gun with a fine to medium tip (0.8mm). A small tip will aid in coating hard-to-reach areas without excessive buildup in the surrounding areas.

Benefits of Cerakoting Plastic 

Cerakote is superior in corrosion resistance, high abrasion resistance, UV stability, temperature resistance, durability, color choice, and color matching. Specifically, it has high resistance to flaking, peeling, and chemicals.

This thin film coating has a thickness of approximately 0.002 inches, and its temperature resistance ensures durability and adhesion when it counts. These features, combined with ceramic technology, offer a highly wear-resistant coating while maintaining functionality and reliability.

Contact Us for Premium Superoxalloy Abrasives

Cerakoting plastic is a viable option for enhancing the performance and aesthetics of plastic components. However, it requires careful material selection, meticulous surface preparation, and proper application techniques.

At 10X Engineered Materials, we offer the ultimate sandblasting media — superoxalloy. Our range of superoxalloy products can help you achieve optimal surface preparation for Cerakoting plastic. Contact us today to find the right solutions for your projects.