The effects of alkyd/melamine resin ratio and curing temperature on the properties of the coatings

Synthetic resins are used as binders in protective coatings. An alkyd/melamine resin mixture is the usual composition for the preparation of a coating called "baking enamel" cured through functional groups of resins. The effects of the alkyd/butylated melamine resin ratio (from 85/15 to 70/30) and curing temperature (from 100 degrees C to 160 degrees C) on the crosslinking and properties of the coating are presented in this paper. The degree of curing was determined by differential scanning calorimetry. These data were used for the estimation of the degree of crosslinking. The hardness, elasticity, impact resistance, degree of adherence and gloss were also determined. Optimal coating properties could be achieved with an alkyd/melamine resin ratio of 75/25, a curing temperature of 130 degrees C and a curing time of 30 min.