Studying the properties of polypyrrole-montmorillonite polyacrylic-urethane nanocomposite coatings: the role of an eco-friendly ionic liquid

Purpose This paper aims to achieve an anti-corrosive coating via uniform dispersion of nanoclay particles (montmorillonite) and polypyrrole (PPy) as a conductive polymer as well as their effects on the anti-corrosion features in the presence of the eco-friendly ionic liquids (ILs). Design/methodology/approach In this research, PPy with different forms of nanoclay were used. Moreover, ILs additive is used to enhance the better dispersion process of clay and PPy nanoparticles in the resin. Findings As a result, the IL additive in the formulation of nano-composite coatings greatly improves the dispersion process of clay and PPy nanoparticles in the resin. Due to its high compatibility with polyurethane resin and clay and PPy nanoparticles, this additive contains a high dispersing power to disperse the investigated nanoparticles in the resin matrix. Research limitations/implications High polarity of ILs as well as abilities to dissolve both mineral and organic materials, they can provide the better chemical processes compared to common solvents. Practical implications IL abilities have not been discovered to a large extent such as catalysts and detectors. Social implications ILs have been emerging as promising green solvents to replace conventional solvents in recent years. They possess unique properties such as nonvolatility, low toxicity, ease of handling, nonflammability and high ionic conductivity. Thus, they have received much attention as green media for various chemistry processes. Originality/value The simultaneous existence of clay, PPy and IL additive in the nano-composite coating formulation is responsible for the high corrosion resistance of the coating.