Protective films can be created using several techniques, each suited for specific applications and materials. Common methods include:
Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD): Involves the physical transfer of material from a target to the substrate in a vacuum environment. Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD): Uses chemical reactions to deposit a solid material from a vapor onto the substrate. Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD): Allows for the precise control of film thickness and composition at the atomic scale. Sol-Gel Process: Involves the transition of a system from a liquid 'sol' into a solid 'gel' phase.