Chromate-Free, Zero Volatile Organic Compound Primer for Amphibious Vehicles

The objective of the program is to demonstrate through resin synthesis and system formulation a chromate-free, zero volatile organic compound (VOC) primer that meets the corrosion, physical and environmental resistance performance requirements for the exterior surfaces of amphibious assault vehicles. Luna Innovations, Inc. will develop a novel VOC-free binder system consisting of a water-dispersible glycidyl carbamate functional epoxy resin. The crosslink-functional coating will have the excellent physical and barrier properties of a two-component epoxy resin combined with the durability and flexibility of polyurethane. Incorporation of low-cost, environmentally acceptable plant-based extracts that exhibit remarkable corrosion inhibition into the primer system will provide the required corrosion protection. Luna will demonstrate the performance properties of the coating system through the appropriate standardized military tests and in direct comparison to existing chromate-bearing military qualified products. Substantial cost and performance benefits with concomitant decreased environmental impact will be realized from the novel high performance system formulated to conform to existing logistical and operational requirements.