What is the process of adding a protective layer to prevent damage and corrosion called?

The process of adding a protective layer to prevent damage and corrosion is best described by the term coating. Coating involves applying a covering material to a surface, which serves as a barrier against environmental factors such as moisture, chemicals, and physical abrasions that can cause deterioration. Coatings can be made from various materials, including polymers, metals, and other substances, specifically designed to enhance durability and resistance to corrosion.

Coating is particularly important in various engineering applications, as it significantly extends the lifespan of materials and structures, ensuring they maintain their integrity and functionality over time. In many industries, different types of coatings are tailored to meet specific performance requirements, such as thermal resistance or chemical compatibility.

While sealing, plating, and painting are also methods related to surface protection, they each have particular contexts or limitations that make them different from the broader definition of coating. Sealing typically refers to filling gaps or joints to prevent leakage, plating is a more specific process involving applying a metal layer for functions like conductivity or aesthetics, and painting may not always provide the same level of corrosion protection as dedicated coatings do.