Anticorrosive self-stratified PDMS-epoxy coating for marine structures

Four self-stratified coatings were prepared by dispersion of titanium dioxide (TiO2) and hydrophobic fumed silica (SiO2) nanoparticles in polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)-Epoxy mix separately and in combination. Incorporating a definite ratio of nanofillers in PDMS-Epoxy incompa ible polymer blend to form a single coat paint system with anticorrosive and improved hydrophobic properties by the self-stratifying process is the chief highlight of this research work. The appropriate characterization techniques like Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy in Attenuated Total Reflection (ATR) mode of the coatings top and bottom layers emphasized the intended stratification. The Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) displayed the morphology of the coated samples top and bottom layers and the existence of the intended stratification in the coatings cross-section. The PDMS-Epoxy coating inclusive of both the nanofillers exhibited improved hydrophobic nature, appreciable surface free energy, augmented adherence to the substrate and lesser shear force in pseudo barnacle strength test in terms of shear. This innovative formulation pertains to the application on underwater substrates with improved anti-biofouling properties.