Preparation and evaluation of thermal sprayed coatings

In the evaluation of thermal sprayed coatings the examination of prepared cross sections is still one of the most important ways of assessing the required quality characteristics of the coating. In contrast to compact materials, numerous defects can occur as a result of the method of preparation of the sample due to the inhomogeneous nature of thermal sprayed coatings. Experience is also required in the microscopic evaluation of such samples if incorrect interpretation is to be avoided.