Poly(ethyl methacrylate) Composite Coatings Containing Halogen-Free Inorganic Additives with Flame-Retardant Properties

Abstract

This investigation is motivated by the need for the development of polymer coatings containing inorganic flame-retardant materials (FRMs) and the replacement of toxic halogenated FRMs. A green strategy is reported for the fabrication of poly(ethyl methacrylate) (PEMA)-FRM composite coatings using a dip-coating method. The use of water-isopropanol co-solvent allows the replacement of regular toxic solvents for PEMA. The abilities to form concentrated solutions of high-molecular-mass PEMA and to disperse FRM particles in such solutions are the main factors in the fabrication of coatings using a dip-coating technique. Huntite, halloysite, and hydrotalcite are used as advanced FRMs for the fabrication of PEMA-FRM coatings. FTIR, XRD, SEM, and TGA data are used for the analysis of the microstructure and composition of PEMA-FRM coatings. PEMA and PEMA-FRM coatings provide corrosion protection of stainless steel. The ability to form laminates with different layers using a dip-coating method facilitates the fabrication of composite coatings with enhanced properties.