Application of Coupling Agents in Coatings

With the increasing demand for improving physical properties and extending performance life, the regulations on volatile organic components in the coating industry are becoming increasingly strict, and silane technology is becoming more and more interesting to people. The unique ability of silane coupling agents to form covalent bonds in inorganic and organic components, as well as the inherent stability of siloxane bonding, make this technology a core component of high-performance paints and coatings. The properties of silane are key components that enable these materials to resist physical, chemical, environmental, and thermal degradation.

Silane monomers are widely used in coatings in the form of organic functional alkoxysilane, serving as adhesion promoters, pigment treatments, and crosslinking agents. Inorganic alkyl functional groups combine with various organic functional groups to form covalent bonds between organic polymers and inorganic surfaces such as dyes, fillers, glass, and metal materials. The same coupling agent mechanism binds organic polymers and inorganic surfaces. The binding of all alkoxysilanes to inorganic surfaces is essentially the same, but in order to obtain optimal performance from silanes, the organic functional properties of silanes must match the chemical properties of organic polymers in paints, inks, or coatings.

The role of coupling agents in coatings and inks

The use of silane coupling agents in coatings can improve adhesion, moisture resistance, chemical resistance, UV resistance, and corrosion resistance, as well as improve the dispersibility of fillers. Alkoxysilane monomers can be mixed with many organic resins. In fact, silane is a highly polar solvent. Aggregating silane into silicone resin and liquid can affect the compatibility and properties of the resulting polymer.

Organosilane coupling agents are also commonly used as intermediates, which react with metal hydroxides such as sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide to produce silicates and organosilicates. These materials can be used as protective treatment agents, such as zinc rich primers, hydrophobic treatment agents for stone, or directly mixed into concrete coatings to improve the physical and hydrophobic properties of the coating.