International.
In a study, scientists at the University of Malaya (Malaysia) introduced 1 to 8% (w/w) ZnO nanoparticles into a hybrid acrylic silicone polymer matrix to achieve nanocomposite coating systems with remarkable anti-corrosion and hydrophobic characteristics.
The chemical structure of the developed hybrid polymer matrix was investigated using Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy, while the morphology and wettability of the developed surfaces were determined using field emission scanning electron microscopy and contact angle (CA) measurements, respectively.
In addition, anti-corrosion behavior and barrier properties during 60 days of exposure to a 3.5% NaCl solution were studied by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy.
All the results obtained revealed that the presence of ZnO nanoparticles significantly influences the performance of the acrylic-silicone polymer matrix. A coating system with ZnO nanoparticles at 3% by weight demonstrated the most pronounced anti-corrosion properties and also achieved the highest AC, with a value of 95.6 °.
The study can be viewed by clicking here.
