Silica-Based Corrosion Protection Microcapsules

Painting metal provides excellent corrosion protection, as long as the paint remains intact. However, if the paint peels or becomes chipped after an impact, corrosion can occur in the revealed metallic area and even spread underneath the paint. Therefore, regular inspection and maintenance are required to ensure that the paint remains undamaged. Repairs may be required for damage that occurs between inspections. As an alternative microcapsules incorporated in the paint can be used to store film-forming and corrosion preventative agents. When the paint is damaged, these agents are released and reform the paint before corrosion occurs. While microcapsules to incorporate water-insoluble pigments, organic monomers and organic corrosion inhibitors have been demonstrated, there has been little work with ionic, water-soluble corrosion inhibitors. Nomadics will apply our extensive experience in advanced materials to use silica-based microcapsules that contain water-soluble materials to supplement polymeric-capsules containing organic materials. These additives will help to achieve self-healing coatings that will have numerous applications in military and private sector applications.