Boosting anti-corrosion and anti-fouling properties of photocured epoxy films with multi-epoxy siloxane monomer

In this study, we used a low-surface-energy multifunctional cyclic siloxane monomer (TOCS) and commercial bisphenol-A epoxy resin (BE-188) to prepare highly efficient anti-corrosion and anti-fouling coatings (SAT) through cationic photopolymerization. The effects of the TOCS monomer on the coating, including photoreactivity, mechanical properties, transparency, and hydrophobicity, were investigated. The introduction of cyclic siloxane into the formulation not only contributed to hydrophobicity and adhesion properties, but also enhanced its mechanical, thermal, and chemical properties. Electrochemical analyses for anti-corrosion performance were conducted and found that the SAT-10 coating exhibited the best anti-corrosion performance with corrosion protection value up to 99.8 %. Additionally, the coated films were tested to evaluate their chemical resistance and anti-fouling properties under acid, alkali solutions and drinks (such as cola, coffee, juice), respectively. Furthermore, the removal ability of activated carbon solids by water was also conducted. The network crosslinking density, hydrophobic and adhesion properties are beneficial for the contact between the coating and dirt or corrosive mediums (Cl-, H₂O, O₂). Therefore, we are confident that the environmentally friendly anti-corrosion and anti-fouling coating prepared by this research has great potential for widespread application.