Flock Coatings
Flock coating is the latest trendy choice in decorative interior finishing for homes and apartments. Flock, commonly known as 'chips', translates from Greek as 'flakes' or 'snowflakes'. This name accurately reflects the production and application technology of the material.
Its origins date back to ancient times. Ancient Chinese artisans decorated religious and ceremonial objects, as well as items for sale, by applying sticky resin to surfaces and attaching fibers, feathers, and lint. In the mid-20th century, electrostatic flocking machines were developed in Europe.
Today, flock consists of small particles made from various materials. Particle size typically ranges from 0.3 to 3 mm, though special decorative versions include longer particles up to 12 mm. Flock coating is created by spraying or adhering these particles onto a base surface.
Materials used to produce flock:
- Polyamide. Melted into small particles, sometimes ground into powder and dyed in various colors. Used across many industries. Due to its high heat resistance (up to 150°C), polyamide is often used in thermopressing applications. It is also especially popular on surfaces requiring high wear resistance, such as floors.
- Polyester. Functionally similar to polyamide but offers greater light resistance. Used in manufacturing rubber guides for car windows.
- Viscose. Particles may deform under mechanical stress, so it's primarily used in decoration, crafts, gift packaging, and toys.
- Cotton. Particles are only available in ground form, limited by low resistance to mechanical wear. One application is coating the inner side of rubber gloves.
- Polypropylene. Used for carpeting and floor mats.
- Acril. Widely used in interior wall and floor finishes. Acrylic flock coating offers excellent wear resistance and sound insulation. Depending on particle size, the surface may become textured or even three-dimensional.
Flock coating is easy to apply. First, a base coating is applied to the surface, then flock particles are sprayed using a specialized tool called a flocking gun. Flocking guns are expensive, but can be rented for home-based projects.
Flock coating can be textured, rough, or smooth, depending on particle size and application density. However, sparse application significantly reduces wear resistance and sound insulation. Manufacturers offer various flock shapes: traditional chip form, straw-like shapes.
Color options are virtually unlimited. Different flock colors can be mixed to create countless combinations. The latest innovation includes fluorescent flock, creating a visual effect of expanded space. Flock coating is an environmentally friendly decorative finish.
