Two-component waterborne epoxy coatings

The chemistry and properties of two component, waterborne epoxy coatings are reviewed. The coatings are classified by the type of epoxy resin employed. Type I utilize low molecular weight, liquid epoxy resin, and type II use pre-formed dispersions of higher molecular weight, solid epoxy resins. The physical and coatings chemistry of waterborne epoxy coatings is discussed, with particular emphasis on the film formation process. After a description of the general structure-property requirements for the coatings components and the surfactant properties of amine hardeners, a detailed description of the chemistry of the binders for both type I and type II systems is provided, based mostly on the patent literature. General principles of coatings formulation are then provided.