In spite of the proliferation of plastics, the use of metals still abounds. In fact, only metal parts can be utilized in some applications. This may be due to the inherent quality of the particular metal, the underlying economics, or both.
These metals are oftentimes rendered more usable when coatings are applied. The properties of inexpensive metals can be enhanced with the application of proper coating. One example of such is anodized metal, which has the following benefits:
1. Anodizing makes the part resistant to corrosion and chemical attack. This adds to the durability of the metal component.
2. It makes the part more resistant to wear as well as scratches. Aside from enhancing the ruggedness, the original appearance of the part is maintained. This could be an important feature in consumer products, especially for visible parts.

3. The additional oxide layer does not flake or peel, and it is easy to clean. Oftentimes, soap and water is sufficient.
4. The coating can easily be redone should it be necessary.
5. Colors can be incorporated in the finish.
Definitely, these qualities add to the usefulness of metals (especially aluminum, which is commonly coated in this manner). It should be noted that anodizing can be applied to various metals like titanium, magnesium, and tantalum. Anodizing can also be done on iron and carbon steel through nitric acid treatment.
If ductility is important, nickel plated metals can be used. These metals are coated with nickel in order to enhance their durability and resistance to corrosion. But this type of plating has other advantages like it can be combined with phosphorus, boron, and Teflon (among others) to produce various preferred qualities in the final product.
For more specialized and demanding uses, e.g. aerospace and nuclear reactors, special coatings are applied to enhance the surface of metals as well as other substrates. And there are companies that are capable of these high-tech applications.




