ABSTRACT
Before starting a coating development, it is well to review all of the requirements and options from the top down. Can you choose the substrate material or is it predetermined? This can change the situation considerably with respect to process variables such as temperature and the results such as adhesion. Can you choose the coating materials? This is usually the case, but not always. Do you have a choice of chambers and processes available to you? The choices made at the beginning, if there are any to make, can make a significant difference in the effort required and the success of the rest of the coating project. Doing the “homework” first is usually a good approach.
