Polysulfide Modified Epoxy Novolac Cladding for Steel Immersion/Splash Zone Service

"Environmentally-resistant, spray-applied, self-priming, fast-cure, flexible, edge-retentive, impact- and abrasion-resistant, polysulfide-modified epoxy novolac cladding for corrosion control of steel in immersion/splash zones is achieved using formulationscontaining epoxy novolac, urethane-epoxies and urethane-mercaptan resins with saturated hydrocarbon/polysulfide backbone, which are produced by polycondensation of saturated dimeric fatty acids and di(2-hydroxyethyl)disulfide.The molecular structure of cured cladding includes the following chemical blocks:* Cured epoxy structures, contributing high adhesion to steel;* Urethane groups, providing excellent wear resistance, toughness, oil/gasoline resistance, flexibility and chemical stability;* Multiple disulfide links producing high hydrophobicity, flexibility, oil/gasoline resistance, low glass transition temperature and reduced viscosity of resin;* Multiple ester groups contributing toughness, good UV and chemical resistance* Long saturated chains that contribute UV resistance hydrophobicity and flexibility/hardness of coating.POLYMERight will use technology that produces effective odorless mercaptan curing agents at relatively low cost from commercial precursors. Carefully controlled assembling of the chemical blocks will provide both tough and flexible cured polymers.This approach involves the creation of reactive resins with properties not currently available commercially. We ex