Mercedes has also been involved in nanomaterials research and after four years development has produces a new highly scratch resistant clear lacquer.   The key to this lacquer is the ceramic particles roughly 20nm which are applied after the color coat and hardened in a paintshop oven (140 C).   The ceramic particles harden to form a cross weaved, or cross linked network which provides substantial additional strength (scratch at 20mN vs. 7mN) when compared with traditional clear coats.   This smooth dense network of particles also provides protection against infiltration of water and dirt which prolongs the overall life of the vehicle.   The lacquer also has some exciting environmental benefits as traditionally protective coating was applied in layers to form a strong barrier and this new lacquer is done with a single application.  

Nanoparticle ceramic lacquer being applied to a car.