Reinforced polyurethane acrylic resin coating on liquid-crystalline polyester substrates

Abstract

In Optical fiber coating applications, mechanical properties such as scratch resistance, wear resistance, and adhesion to liquid crystalline polyester (LCP) are of paramount importance. However, existing acrylic resin coatings still face challenges, including low adhesion, insufficient wear resistance, and high viscosity. In this study, nano SiO₂ was modified using the titanate coupling agent NDZ-201. Subsequently, the modified nano SiO₂ and γ-methacryloxypropyl trimethoxy silane (KH570) were incorporated into polyurethane acrylate resin to fabricate a novel optical fiber coating. The objective was to enhance the viscosity, stability, wear resistance, and tensile strength of the coating, with a particular emphasis on its interfacial adhesion to LCP. The rheological properties, wear resistance, and mechanical performance of the coating were characterized by using a rheometer, XIGO nano tool, and material testing machine. Additionally, the interfacial properties between the coating and LCP were evaluated through contact angle measurements and adhesion tests. The results indicated that the optical fiber coating achieved a 10 % reduction in viscosity, a 150 % improvement in wear resistance, a 24 % increase in tensile strength, and a 110 % enhancement in adhesion to LCP.