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Difference between metallization and PVD

I would like to know the difference (if it exists) between metallization and physical vapor deposition processes.

Thanks in advance!

Ines Pelayo
- Boecillo, Spain

PVD and vacuum metallization are the same when it comes to vacuum coating or vacuum deposition. In general, PVD is now a days assumed to be a vacuum technique. Metallization is a generic term used when a metal coating is applied, typically without using electrochemistry or electroless chemistry. Sometimes metallization (without vacuum) may include thermal spray and organic spray metal-coat.

Mandar Sunthankar
- Fort Collins, Colorado

PVD is a vacuum metallization process, but 'metallization' is a generic term which seems to merely mean applying a metal to a surface via any process. Some people call the two-part silvering operation 'metallization', some people call flame spraying 'metallization', some people even call electroplating 'metallization'.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
(Ted can offer longterm or instant help)
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey

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