It won't be long until the expression "nanotechnology is all around us" becomes the literal truth. Nanocoatings are being painted on walls, cars, and just about everything else. The result is stronger, less expensive surfaces less harmful to the environment.

The new Mercedes-Benz SL series (pictured) sports a protective coating of nanoparticles that provides a three-fold improvement in the scratch resistance of the paintwork.

The SL-Class is equipped as standard with the substantially more scratch-resistant clearcoat based on nanotechnology.

This innovative paint system, which was introduced first by Stuttgart-based Mercedes, is used in both metallic and non-metallic paint finishes.

Remarkable advances in the area of nanotechnology have allowed tiny ceramic particles - each less than a millionth of a millimetre in size - to be integrated into the molecular structure of the binding agent. The nanoparticles ensure visibly enhanced gloss over an extended period of time.

The nanocoating paint is cured using UV rather than conventional 400 degree Fahrenheit ovens. Once the UV hits, the coating becomes a thin sheet clearcoat, with enhanced scratch and abrasion resistance.