Pigmented Solvent-Free Corrosion-Resistant UV Coating System

This SBIR Phase I project is designed to determine the feasibility of preparing novel coatings for corrosion resistance through the incorporation of pigment and non-chrome corrosion inhibitor into a solvent-free ultraviolet (UV) light curable matrix. In particular, the proposed research is directed toward determining the feasibility of preparing a safe, novel chromium-free, solvent-free, corrosion-resistant coating system in a primary color with appropriate photoinitiator components to allow sufficient UV cure despite light absorption by the primary color pigment in the coating. Evidence of adequate cure will be a tack-free surface, adhesion, hardness, and solvent resistance, and evidence of adequate corrosion resistance will be protection of scribe aluminum alloy surfaces in ASTM B-117 salt fog testing. Successful Phase I feasibility research will provide sufficient groundwork for Phase II work directed toward further research and characterization, including the extension of the technology to other primary colors for a complete complement of colors desirable for a full tint line and applicability to a wide range of commercial applications. Phase II also will be directed toward the research of reaction parameters to achieve important property requirements of aerospace primer specification MIL-PRF-23377 and aerospace topcoat specification MIL-PRF-85285. Light Curable Coatings is a technology leader for solvent-free environmentally compliant coating systems with proprietary technology to rapidly cure heavily pigmented coating with UV light, including low-gloss camouflage gray UV coating systems developed for military applications. An important aspect of the proposed approach is to significantly reduce exposure of workers and communities to hexavalent chromium, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and hazardous air pollutant (HAP) materials. Anticipated benefits of this technology include dramatically improved environmental friendliness, economics, and productivity capabilities. Because this solvent-free coating system contains safer components, application in confined spaces and occupied spaces should be possible without the hazards presented by conventional materials. Environmental savings apply not only in production, but also throughout the lifecycle of coated structures by reducing environmental risks associated with manufacture, maintenance, storage, and disposal. The proposed development of a pigmented solvent-free corrosion-resistant UV coating system for high performance application offers a green alternative to current systems that contain toxic components. In advancing the technology and range of use for solvent-free clean UV-curable chemistry, this research offers a significant positive societal impact in terms of a better quality of life for industrial workers and for citizens through safer workplaces and a cleaner environment.