The material of PPF is thermoplastic polyurethane, a soft plastic with elasticity like rubber. When the film is stretched and the force is released, it returns to almost its original state. However, if you stretch a general polyethylene film, it will stay stretched. Plastic materials that have this "rebound ability" are rare, and this is one of the major features of this material. It is thicker and more elastic than glass coating, and has shock absorption properties that protect your car from major scratches and dents. It is an excellent way to physically protect the paint surface. So why do we cover PPF with glass coating?

The reason for this is its characteristic elasticity. Because it is a soft and elastic material, it can be applied to an already assembled car and can be peeled off as needed. However, its molecular structure is an organic that contains carbon and is easily affected by the natural environment and deteriorates.

It is not possible to create such elastic PPF with inorganic materials such as glass coating. However, glass coating can create a strong barrier due to its inorganic three-dimensional structure. By applying it to PPF, it is possible to limit the PPF's direct contact with water and air and suppress deterioration. Since the main structure of glass coating is an inorganic material, it is water resistant and does not oxidize in the natural environment.

Recent PPFs have various properties on their surface to meet customer demands, such as water repellency and film recovery. However, inorganic glass coating cannot be applied at the shipping stage. If it is applied, it will be stretched when applied to the painted surface, and may crack or peel off. Therefore, inorganic materials that are resistant to the natural environment, such as glass coating, can only be applied after the PPF is applied on car.

By the way, glass coating and ceramic coating are the same thing. Glass coating is made using a principle called heatless glass technology, so I call it glass coating, but it seems to be commonly called ceramic coating, especially in the United States.

--Tomo Kashino, Modesta