Impressive reinforcement on the anti-corrosion ability of the commercial fluorocarbon paint via an amino groups modified graphene

Abstract

The interaction with the matrix and the dispersion within the matrix hinder the realization of graphene's potential as an anti-corrosive filler. Herein, a -NH₂ modified graphene-based filler (PS-PVP@NH₂-rGO) was designed to simultaneously address these issues in the fluorocarbon resin (FEVE) coating. Reinforing FEVE coating with PS-PVP@NH₂-rGO, the wear rate and the lowest-frequency impedance modulus after a 7-day immersion were found to be 0.35 times and 177.3 times those of FEVE coating respectively. Ultraviolet-Visible spectra confirmed the excellent dispersibility of PS-PVP@NH₂-rGO. The designed differential scanning calorimeter experiment demonstrated the close interaction between PS-PVP@NH₂-rGO and the FEVE matrix. Due to this close interaction, PS-PVP@NH₂-rGO exhibited a high degree of dispersion within the FEVE matrix rather than self-aggregation, then concentrated the stress outside, absorbed energy produced during the friction process, and enhanced the coating's wear resistance. A complicated “labyrinth” was also created by the fillers. With chemical interactions, the fillers and the surrounding FEVE matrix formed an integrated whole, making the “obstacles” created by the fillers more significant. Consequently, the strong barrier effect resulted in superior anti-corrosion performances of PS-PVP@NH₂-rGO/FEVE coating. Introducing -NH₂ groups in was proven to effectively complete the coating, improve coating's quality and barrier effect, and finally prevent corrosive media. This study aims to provide design ideas and theoretical supports for high-performance heavy-duty anti-corrosive coatings.