Recent research has demonstrated that incorporating KH-792 as a coupling agent significantly improves the mechanical properties of waterborne polyurethane (WPU) coatings. The study highlights that a WPU formulation containing 3 wt% KH-792 achieves remarkable corrosion resistance.

Typically, WPU coatings possess a higher proportion of hydrophilic groups, which can compromise their corrosion resistance and shorten their lifespan. To address these challenges, researchers synthesized a series of waterborne polyurethanes using dicyclohexylmethane diisocyanate (HMDI) and polytetrahydrofuran ether diol (PTMG) as primary raw materials. Triethanolamine (TEOA) served as both a crosslinking agent and corrosion inhibitor, while KH-792 was introduced to create a dual crosslinked structure.

Adjusting the crosslinking degree of this dual network structure allows for tailored performance. Investigations into how varying KH-792 content affects the properties of the resulting dispersions and films revealed that the WPU with 3 wt% KH-792 exhibits impressive mechanical strength of 34.64 MPa, alongside a minimal water absorption rate of just 3.32%. Additionally, the adhesion strength was measured at 2.64 MPa, and the material displayed a high impedance modulus of 2976.4 Ω/cm² at low frequencies, indicating its robustness.

This advanced formulation shows significant promise for applications in anti-corrosion coatings, especially in demanding environments such as offshore oil rigs, ships, and pipelines. The findings from this study pave the way for innovations in coating technologies, enhancing protection against corrosion in critical infrastructure.

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