Fluorinated coatings

Citation

Bean, J. (1999), "Fluorinated coatings", Pigment & Resin Technology, Vol. 28 No. 1. https://doi.org/10.1108/prt.1999.12928aaa.001

Fluorinated coatings

Fluorinated coatings

The most recent advances in the rapidly expanding area of fluorinated coatings were discussed at a conference which took place in Orlando, Florida, 25-27 January. Forty-two papers were presented from 12 countries covering all aspects of fluorinated coatings including end-users, application techniques, materials and properties.

This was the third fluorine in coatings conference organised by the Paint Research Association (PRA) of Teddington, UK, who should be contacted for copies of papers, etc, Fax: +44 181 943 4705.

The unique forum provided an opportunity for interface between a wide range of companies and disciplines. The advances explored included hybrid organic-inorganics, nanocomposites and supercritical fluid systems. Problems associated with adhesion, formulation and cost have so far limited the use of fluorinated polymers to specialist high performance applications. Many conference speakers thought that new advances in resins, additives, dispersions and application techniques now point to wider use to meet demands for improved cost-effective coatings.

Some concept of the calibre of the papers can be gained by our readers from the following three summaries.

Fluoropolymer Nanocomposites by Dr Michael J. Michalezyk, Kenneth G. Sharp, Charles W. Stewart, Du Pont Central Research, USA. This paper reported the formation of fluoropolymer/inorganic hybrid materials containing intimate mixtures of polysilicates and fluoropolymers. Using sol-gel chemistry, alkoxysilane precursors can be polymerised in perfluorinated solvents containing dissolved fluoropolymers. These fluoropolymer nanocomposite coatings have improved abrasion resistance and better adhesion to substrates. Properties of the coatings were discussed.

Fluoropolymers with Very Low Surface Energy Characteristics, by Dr Paul Graham, T.G. Nevell, J. Tsibouklis, University of Portsmouth, UK. Non-wettable, low surface energy (non-stick) polymers with good film-forming characteristics have potential commercial applications in antifouling coatings, lubrication, wear control, antisoiling and antistaining, etc. This paper reports efforts to synthesise fluoropolymers with unusually low surface energies (<6mJ m^­2).

Fabrication of Metal and Metal-Oxide Macromolecular Networks within FluoropolymerFree Volumes, by Dr Timothy S. Koloski, Dr Terrence G. Vargo, Integument Technologies, USA. Novel organic-inorganic hybrids by permanent infusion of metal and metal oxides into fluoropolymer films and particles. Physical properties such as thermo-mechanical stability can be improved. Potential applications include high performance fluoro film and spray coatings for anti-corrosion, without leaching of toxic metals into the environment.