Sol synthesis on laboratory scale for (a) Glass-like coatings on metals and stainless steels for improved scratch, abrasion and tarnish resistance; (b) Anti-adhesive, easy-to-clean coatings on glass, plastic and metals; (c) Anti-microbial coatings on glass, plastic, stainless steel and metals; (d) Multilayer interference coatings for antireflection; (e) Transparent gels for fire protection; (f) Colored coatings on glasses for decoration/aesthetics.