Properties of thin coatings deposited by physical vapour deposition on safety helmets

Abstract

This article presents research on a new solution for industrial helmets improving mechanical and physical properties (temperature resistance and reflection of infrared radiation). The application of known technology in a new personal protective equipment area has been described in order to increase their level of safety and comfort of use. In this work we have studied the effect of a selected magnetron sputtering coating method onto polymer substrates, such as acrylonitrile–butadiene–styrene copolymer, polycarbonate, polyethylene, high-density polyethylene, polyamide, glass and silicon. Coatings made of copper, aluminium, TiN and TiAl were used. This work aims at identifying the best substrates for coating deposition improving the quality of protective helmets. On the basis of the obtained results, it can be stated that the TiN coating provides the best protection from infrared radiation and the best scratch resistance.