Evaluation of water vapour permeability of solventless epoxy – nano talc/montmorrilonite amino‐silane coupled coatings

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the water vapour permeability and mechanical properties of a solventless epoxy – nano‐platelet nano‐composite system compatibilised with an amino‐silane.

Design/methodology/approach

The performance of a nano‐platelet reinforced coating composite was studied with reference to the water vapour permeability and mechanical properties. The effect of addition of coupling agent on these properties was also studied.

Findings

The addition of nano‐platelets to the solventless epoxy system resulted in an increased water vapour permeability which was reduced on the addition of coupling agent. The talc‐based films showed a better performance as compared to the montmorillonite based coatings. The mechanical properties of the films increased though the addition of coupling agent showed a larger increase. The gloss of the coatings was compromised on addition of nano‐particles. Comparing coupling agents, the primary amine based silane showed better performance and lower tactoid formation as compared to the secondary amino silane based coupling agent.

Research limitations/implications

The addition of nano‐particles to solventless and other eco‐friendly coatings needs to be studied further. Various other coupling agents could be studied to further improve the performance of these coatings.

Practical implications

The formulation developed could be used to reduce the water vapour permeability and performance of solventless epoxy coatings, which could be used as anti‐corrosive coatings.

Originality/value

The study of performance of nano‐particles in solventless epoxy coatings and their effect on water vapour permeability could increase performance of these reduced VOC coatings.

Citation

Sharma, N., Singal, V. and D'Melo, D. (2013), "Evaluation of water vapour permeability of solventless epoxy – nano talc/montmorrilonite amino‐silane coupled coatings", Pigment & Resin Technology, Vol. 42 No. 1, pp. 45-52. https://doi.org/10.1108/03699421311288751