Flexible epoxy graphene thermoset with excellent weather and corrosion resistance

The chemical-bonding-dispersed method was used to develop a functional graphene oxide/epoxy nanocomposite coating with multifunctional properties and long-term stability for anticorrosion and weather resistance purposes. This study compared relevant properties before and after ultraviolet (UV) irradiation of the chemical bonding-dispersed nanocomposite, a physically blended composite, and a neat polymer by using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, ultraviolet aging, contact angle testing, electrochemical corrosion studies, dynamic mechanical analyzer testing, thermogravimetric analysis, flexibility testing, and an adhesion test. The as-prepared nanocomposite prevented the yellowing of epoxy resin, demonstrating the nanocomposite's durability under UV light. Furthermore, the nanocomposite exhibited excellent anticorrosion properties. Anticorrosion performance with a corrosion rate of 6.10 x 10(-3) mil/year and a corrosion efficiency of 99.99 % was attained with a thin-film coating of approximately 10 mu m, and it retained a corrosion rate of 1.50 x 10(-2) mil/year with a corrosion efficiency of 99.98 %. The results of the longterm durability tests performed using the electrochemical impedance spectrum indicated that the chemical bonding-dispersed nanocomposite was superior to the physically blended dispersed composite and pure epoxy coating. The nanocomposite coating retained its high impedance over long-term durability tests, with a charge transfer resistance of 8.73 x 10(7) Omega.cm(2) after 90 days. This study demonstrated the durability of the anticorrosion, mechanical, thermal, and degradation properties of the designed coating material before and after UV irradiation.