Synthesis and characterisation of the flame retardant properties and corrosion resistance of Schiff’s base compounds incorporated into organic coating

Abstract

Purpose – This paper aims to report on the synthesis and characterisation of new flame retardants and anticorrosive additives based on Schiff’s base compounds, which were added physically to organic coating. Design/methodology/approach – Flame retardants are incorporated into polymeric materials either as additives or as reactive materials. Additive-type flame retardants are widely used by incorporating into polymeric materials by physical means. In this research, Schiff’s base (azomethine) compounds are added physically to alkyd paint as flame-retardant additives. Elemental analysis, infrared spectroscopy and proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy were used to characterise the structure of the prepared Schiff’s base compounds. Thermal gravimetric analysis was used to evaluate their thermal stability. Experimental coatings were manufactured on a laboratory scale, and then applied by brush on wood and steel panels. Findings – Results of an oxygen index value indicated that alkyd paints containing Schiff’s base compounds as additives exhibit very good flame-retardant effects. Also the physical, mechanical and corrosion resistance properties were studied to evaluate the drawbacks of the additives. The additives did not affect the flexibility of the paint formula. The gloss and the impact strength were decreased by the additives, but the hardness, adhesion and corrosion resistance were significantly improved by these additives. Research limitations/implications – Alkyd resins are the most extensively used synthetic polymers in the coating industry. Nitrogen compounds are a small but rapidly growing group of flame retardants which are in the focus of public interest concerning environment-friendly flame retardants. So, the focus of this study is on Schiff’s base compounds as flame retardants and anticorrosive additives for alkyd resins to assess their applicability. Practical implications – Schiff’s base compounds can be used as new additives in paint formulations to improve the flame-retardant and corrosion properties. Originality/value – In recent years, there has been considerable interest in the nitrogen-based family of materials because they not only have a wide range of thermal and chemical stabilities, but can also provide improved thermal and flame-retardant properties to polymers. The present paper reports on the synthesis and characterisation of Schiff’s base compounds and their performance in alkyd resin coatings.