Preparation and investigation of anticorrosion properties of the water-based epoxy-clay nanocoating modified by Na+-MMT and Cloisite 30B

In this study the effect of using nanoclay particles in two different matrices on anticorrosive performance improvement of a novel water-based epoxy coating was investigated. For this purpose, Na+-montmorillonite (Na+-MMT) and organo-montmorillonite (Cloisite 30B) were introduced into water-based hardener (RIPI-W.B.H.) and epoxy resin matrices, separately. Nanoclays were added to polymeric matrices using direct mixing under an ultrasonic homogenizer. The coatings were analyzed to ensure the intercalation and distribution of layered silicates by means of X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscope (TEM) analyses. The structure of products is studied by infrared (IR) spectrometer. The corrosion protection performances of the coatings were investigated using salt spray test and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) in 3.5% sodium chloride solution. The results showed that using Cloisite 30B in water-based hardener had the best performance and its application in anticorrosion water-based zinc rich epoxy coating approved of it.

► Using Na+-MMT or Cloisite 30B for preparation of a water-based epoxy nanocoating.
► Nanoclays were added to polymeric matrices using direct mixing under ultrasonic homogenizer.
► The TEM image of nanocoating containing Cloisite 30B shows 50 nm spacing clay layers.
► Adding Cloisite 30B increases the anticorrosion properties of water-based epoxy nanocoating.