23 Oct Paint Protection Film: A Brief History
Introduction
When it comes to protecting your car’s paintwork, there are many, many options for you to choose from. One of the most recent and beneficial is PPF or Paint Protection Film. PPF is a thin polyurethane film that acts as a sacrificial layer that helps protect against stone chips and scratches. It is also exceptional at reducing UV exposure, mineral deposits, acid rain, and more.
History of PPF
Did you know that today’s modern automotive paint protection film was initially developed for military applications dating back to the Vietnam War?
During the 1960s, the US Department of Defence was experiencing problems with helicopter rotor blades and other sensitive military equipment being damaged by debris or flying shrapnel.
This inspired them to contact the 3M corporation to develop a protective layer that was transparent and lightweight.
Their solution was developing a customized urethane film (or commonly referred to as helicopter tape).
Today’s automotive paint protection has evolved into a high-quality thermoplastic urethane film that is applied to the topcoat of painted surfaces of a new or used car. Car paint protection film is available in multiple colours or an optically clear version, in a variety of thickness levels.
Its first application was commercial, so it was not really intended to ‘sparkle’. In fact, the first versions were incredibly dull – with a cloudy clear lustre.
But they did an exceptional job of protecting anywhere it was applied. It was great for removing damage from stone chips, UV rays, and general wear and tear.
The urethane clear film is highly resistant to acidic contaminants and corrosion, providing protection against bug splatter, bird droppings, mineral deposits, acid rain, and more.
The unique material also helps it to reduce oxidization due to excessive exposure to the sun or UV light.
The top layer of the PPF is comprised of an elastomeric polymer substance that helps the material maintain a natural shape once it has been stretched or applied.
This feature allows the PPF to “self-heal” when light scratches occur.
It also minimizes future swirl marks on the paint job – which makes it an amazing clear paint protection product.
The top layer of the PPF is comprised of an elastomeric polymer substance that helps the material maintain a natural shape once it has been stretched or applied.
It fits seamlessly on the clear coat and is virtually invisible, all the while offering the very best protection for your car.
Applying XPEL PPF to a Porsche 997 Turbo Gen 2.
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