Mechanical Properties of Camouflage Coating Systems Used in Military Technology

Abstract. This article presents the results of experimental studies on the performance properties of camouflage coating systems intended for military applications. Three types of paint systems were tested: a reference system (SP1), a system modified with carbon nanotubes (SP2), and a system modified with glass microspheres (SP3). The coatings were applied to low-carbon steel substrates and tested for abrasion, erosion, and scratch resistance according to Polish and ISO standards. The results showed that the unmodified coating (SP1) demonstrated the highest abrasion and erosion resistance, while the system containing glass microspheres (SP3) achieved the best scratch resistance (10.78 N). Modification with carbon nanotubes (SP2) did not significantly improve the mechanical durability of the coatings. The studies confirm that the use of selected modifiers can improve some functional parameters of paint systems, but not necessarily all performance properties. The results provide a basis for further optimization of camouflage coatings used in military applications. Their purpose is to increase their service life and mechanical strength under demanding environmental and operational conditions.