When inspecting a silicone coating, what is the key aspect to monitor?

Monitoring dry film thickness (DFT) when inspecting a silicone coating is crucial because it directly relates to the performance and longevity of the coating. Silicone coatings are known for their durability, flexibility, and resistance to weathering and UV light, but these properties are significantly influenced by the thickness of the applied layer. If the DFT is insufficient, the coating may not provide enough protection against corrosion or environmental factors. Conversely, if the DFT exceeds specifications, it could lead to issues such as delays in curing or poor adhesion.

In addition to DFT, other aspects like temperature of the environment, application method, and curing time play important roles in the overall application and performance of coatings, but they do not have the same direct correlation to the effectiveness of the silicone coating as dry film thickness does. For example, while the environment's temperature can affect the curing process and application, it does not measure the coating's capacity to protect substrates directly like DFT does.