News Coatings Technologies
UV-curing epoxy coating with inhibitor nanoparticles improves corrosion protection
A Vietnamese research team shows: Despite reduced degrees of curing, cerbeladene SiO₂ nanoparticles in cationically UV-cured epoxy resins significantly improve the mechanical strength and corrosion protection on steel.
The present study investigates the use of cationic UV curing for epoxy coatings combined with inhibitor-laden nanoparticles to improve corrosion protection. The aim was to analyse the effect of cerium-laden silicon dioxide nanoparticles (Ce-SiO₂) on the curing process and the coating properties. The UV-curable systems are based on photoinitiated polymerisation using triarylsulfonium hexafluoroantimonate (TAS) as the initiator.
As part of the UV exposure, parameters such as photoinitiator consumption, conversion of epoxy groups, gel content, swelling behaviour and relative hardness were examined. The results showed that the addition of nanoparticles slightly reduced the reactivity of the system, but at the same time brought significant advantages in terms of mechanical and corrosion protection performance.
Reading tip: Functional Coatings
The EC Tech Report “Functional Coatings” gives you an up-to-date bundle on functional coatings with articles, videos and other handpicked content. In addition to technical articles about the latest technical developments, this all-in-one multi-media pack is rounded off with valuable market insights and important fundamentals about functional coatings formulation.
Higher impact strength and improved salt spray test
In the mechanical test, the Ce-SiO₂ modified system showed increased impact strength and better abrasion resistance. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and salt spray tests also confirmed the increased protective effect against aggressive environmental conditions. The nanoparticles apparently not only act as an inhibitor carrier, but also improve the physical barrier function of the coating.
With their combination of rapid UV curing and enhanced protective properties against corrosion, the developed systems offer promising approaches for applications in the metal sector – particularly where rapid processing and high durability are required.
Source: Journal of Coatings Technology and Research, Volume 21, Pages 1113–1124, (2024)
