UV-Curable Silica-Novolac Epoxy Methacrylate Hybrid Resin for Surface Coating: Synthesis and Characterization

UV-curing coating based on novolac epoxy acrylate resin was synthesized and formation of desired structures was confirmed by appearing of 1722, 810 and 945 cm-1 in the FTIR spectrums. In order to study the effect of presence of inorganic silica on the properties of synthesized resin, an organic/inorganic nano-composite was prepared using the synthesized resin and silica nanoparticles. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) revealed very high agglomeration of nano particles, during this process that was due to the incompatibility of two organic and inorganic phases which could lead to inferior properties of the produced nano composite. In order to overcome this problem, the surface of silica nano-particles was modified by vinyltrimethoxy silane coupling agent using sol-gel method in order to increasing the compatibility of two organic and inorganic phases. Completion of surface modification process was investigated by using of FTIR spectroscopy, scanning electron microscope, thermo-gravimetric analysis and helium pycnometer, confirming the proper reaction of silane coupling agent on surface of silica particles. Characteristics of prepared nano-composite were investigated by dynamic mechanical thermal analysis, hardness, scratch resistance, and abrasion resistance, proving better mechanical properties of nanocomposites over the neat coatings. Measuring the haziness showed very little impact of presence of nano particles on the transparency of coatings that was due to surface modification of coatings which has led to more compatibility of organic and inorganic phases.