What Does
Substrate Mean?
A substrate, in the context of corrosion, is the parent or base material to which a coating is applied or the material upon which a process is conducted. A substrate can be nearly any type of material, including metals, plastics and ceramics.
Corrosionpedia Explains Substrate
Common metals that act as substrates upon which coatings are applied include:
- Steel
- Aluminum
- Copper
- Zinc alloys
- Galvanized steel
A coating is a covering that is applied to the surface of the substrate. In the case of corrosion protection, the coating is applied to protect the substrate, but the coating may be decorative as well.
When coating a substrate, one should ensure that:
- The substrate surface should be clean and free of oil and dirt.
- If there is any type of coating already on the substrate, it should be free of surface scratches, coating chatter or coating streak. These defects can lead to improper coating.
- The uncoated substrate should be flat to avoid issues such as coating bead disturbances, curl and tension control problems.