Introduction to Graphene Coating: 7 Benefits, 4 Uses & Prices

Graphene coating is a cutting-edge solution to maintain a car’s shine and protect its surface.

Imagine a car shield that not only enhances your vehicle’s appearance but also strengthens its exterior against various environmental threats like dust, rain, debris, etc.

Graphene coating, with its roots in advanced materials science, offers just that.

Graphene coating refers to a thin layer of Graphene, a single layer of carbon atoms arranged in a two-dimensional honeycomb or hexagonal lattice, applied onto surfaces for various purposes.

This coating is known for its exceptional properties, including high strength, flexibility, electrical conductivity, and thermal conductivity.

In this article, I will explain Graphene and how it can revolutionize the way you protect and maintain your car’s aesthetic and functional integrity.

Let’s delve into the science and benefits of Graphene coating and why it’s becoming a must-have for car enthusiasts and everyday drivers.

Benefits of Graphene Coating

• Exceptional Durability: Graphene coatings are renowned for their long-lasting protection. Unlike traditional waxes or sealants that wear off, Graphene offers a semi-permanent shield that can last for years.
• Superior Protection: It provides a robust barrier against UV rays, chemical stains, bird droppings, and water spots, preserving the car’s paintwork.
• Enhanced Hydrophobicity: Graphene coatings repel water like no other, ensuring water beads off the surface, reducing drying times and minimizing the risk of water spots. This also helps against any rusting issues in body panels and chassis.
• Improved Scratch Resistance: While it’s a not scratch-proof coating, Graphene coatings significantly enhance the surface’s resistance to minor scratches and swirl marks.
• Thermal Regulation: Graphene’s unique ability to dissipate heat helps in maintaining the surface temperature of the vehicle, contributing to the reduction of oxidation over time.
• Ease of Application: Graphene coatings are available for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. Proper surface preparation is crucial for successful application. Once applied, the coating forms a protective layer that bonds with the paintwork.
• Versatility: Graphene coatings are versatile and can be applied to different surfaces, including metals, plastics, and glass. They offer comprehensive protection for vehicles, from daily drivers to luxury cars and motorcycles.

Uses of Graphene Coating

• Car Paint Protection: The primary use of Graphene coating is to protect the car’s paint from environmental and chemical damage.
• Wheel and Rim Protection: It can be applied to wheels and rims to prevent brake dust buildup and facilitate easier cleaning.
• Glass Treatment: Enhances visibility and safety by applying on windshields and windows for water-repellent properties.
• Interior Protection: Some formulations can be used on interior surfaces like dashboards and seats for UV protection and ease of cleaning.

Why Graphene Coating is Required?

Graphene coatings are essential for Indian roads and weather conditions due to their ability to provide superior corrosion resistance, wear protection, and thermal management.

They can protect vehicle paint surfaces from degradation caused by exposure to harsh weather elements such as extreme temperatures, humidity, and road salt, ultimately extending the lifespan of infrastructure and vehicles.

Moreover, your vehicle is safeguarded against any unwanted scratches and grains while being cleaned. To help you out, I’ve also compared graphene vs ceramic coating in-depth.

Price of Graphene Coating

The cost of Graphene coating can vary widely based on the brand, the vehicle’s size, and the preparatory work needed. On average, prices range from Rs 25,000 to 50,000 or more for professional applications.

Below is a general price table:

8 Steps Process of Graphene Coating Application

Below is a simplified step-by-step process for applying Graphene coating to a vehicle:

• Deep Cleaning: This step involves cleaning the surface thoroughly to remove any dirt, grease, or contaminants. Deep cleaning ensures better adhesion of the Graphene coating.
• Claying: To ensure that the vehicle body is 99.999% clean, it is important to use a clay bar to remove any embedded contaminants or imperfections from the surface. Please note that simply washing the car is not enough to achieve this level of cleanliness.
• Compounding: Depending on the vehicle’s condition like little or heavy scratches, the brand uses compounding accordingly. The compounding process can be divided into 3 parts – Mid, Heavy or direct Finish. It is also known as paint correction to attain a vehicle’s paint shine. Usually, compounding work depends on the vehicle’s paint condition such as soil marks, paint scratches, etc.
• IPA Cleaning: This is the final stage of cleaning where brands use a specific chemical known as IPA (99.8% Technical Grade Isopropyl) to remove all left contamination from the vehicle’s body.
• Graphene Coating: After completing the cleaning process, a brand may use any technique to apply the coating.
• Drying: This step allows the coated surface to dry thoroughly. This can be done at room temperature or by using a heating source to accelerate the drying process.
• Testing and Evaluation: The brand performs different tests to evaluate the performance of the Graphene coating, such as scratch resistance, conductivity, or barrier properties.

Once satisfied with the coating quality, inspect the surface one final time before packaging or further processing.

Why Should You Consider Graphene Coating for Your Vehicle?

Graphene coating is a wise investment in preserving your vehicle’s appearance and value.

Its unmatched durability & protective qualities make it a superior choice over traditional coatings.

Whether you’re looking to enhance the look, prolong the lifespan of your paintwork, or simplify cleaning processes, Graphene coating offers a comprehensive solution that meets and exceeds these needs.

Cons of Graphene Coating

• Regular Maintenance: Regular maintenance is necessary for vehicles with ceramic or Graphene coatings, and this is typically included in a brand’s maintenance package. Usually, you can get your vehicle coated once/year.
• Cost: Graphene is still relatively expensive, which can increase the cost of coatings compared to traditional alternatives.
• Curing Time: Graphene coatings typically require a longer curing time compared to traditional coatings. This means customers may need to wait longer to drive their vehicles after application, which can be inconvenient.
• Limited Availability: Graphene coatings are still relatively new to the market, and availability may be limited compared to other coating options.
• Professional Application Required: Due to the complexity of the application and the need for specialized equipment and training, Graphene coatings are typically applied by professional detailers. I also suggest getting it done via a well-established brand only.

FAQs

Conclusion

Graphene coating provides superior protection and performance for car owners.

Its durability, heat dissipation, and hydrophobic properties extend the lifespan of the vehicle’s exterior, simplify cleaning, and reduce environmental impact.

Although initial costs may be higher, the long-term benefits justify the investment.

Ultimately, exploring Graphene coating can significantly elevate your vehicle’s durability, aesthetics, and value retention.