Sustainable nanoparticles improve scratch resistance of water-based acrylate coatings
Water-based coating systems are becoming increasingly important. A new study investigates the environmentally friendly modification of nanoalumina (Al2O3) to improve the scratch resistance of polyacrylate coatings.
A Chinese research team has developed a sustainable method for modifying nano-Al2O3 to improve the mechanical properties of water-based acrylate coatings. The study, published in the Journal of Nanoparticle Research, shows that the treated nanoparticles significantly increase the scratch resistance of the coatings.
By using a bio-based polyhydroxyurethane (PHU) as the matrix, the scientists were able to achieve an optimal balance between mechanical stability and self-healing properties. The incorporation of aminopropyl-terminated polydimethylsiloxane (H2N-PDMS-NH2) enabled increased chain mobility and resulted in a high cross-linking density.
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Scratch resistance and self-healing combined
The modified coatings exhibit a tensile strength of up to 28.3 MPa and a rapid self-healing capability at 150 °C within 30 minutes. They can also be chemically recycled and efficiently reprocessed. These properties make the modified PHU-based coatings particularly interesting for applications in areas with high mechanical loads.
In addition to improved scratch resistance and recyclability, the team was also able to demonstrate excellent adhesion to wood and glass surfaces. Glass substrates coated with PHU coatings remain stable up to 150 °C and are thus suitable for applications at high temperatures.
Source: Li, M., Ge, X., Wu, P., Chu, H. & Li, Z. (2025). Study of green modification of nano-Al2O3 and enhanced scratch resistance of water-based polyacrylate varnishes. Journal of Nanoparticle Research, Volume 27, Article 20.
