Research Progress on Polyether Ether Ketone (PEEK) Composite Coatings: A Review

As modern industrialization accelerates, traditional metallic materials face challenges in meeting critical surface protection requirements. Constrained by their physicochemical properties, these materials exhibit significant performance degradation. This leads to frequent peeling of surface coatings on critical components. Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) is a high-performance semi-crystalline thermoplastic used in advanced engineering applications. Its composite coating systems have emerged as a promising alternative to metallic coatings. This paper systematically reviews the recent advances in coating preparation techniques for PEEK composites. The current status of the use of mainstream preparation methods such as thermal spray technology, rapid prototyping and electrophoretic deposition is highlighted. The strengths and weaknesses of each method are also compared. Critical parameters including substrate roughness, temperature, and substrate elasticity are systematically examined. The effects of these variables are evaluated with respect to critical performance indicators, including porosity levels and interfacial bonding strength of PEEK composite coatings. A comparative investigation was carried out on different reinforcement materials. Their interfacial interactions with the matrix are examined in detail at the microscopic level. The impact of these modification strategies on coating performance was comprehensively evaluated.