Adhesion enhancement and protection of concrete against aggressive environment using graphite-Fe2O3 modified epoxy coating
Fernando Dorado, L. Toledo, A. Osa, Adrián Esteban-Arranz, Javier Sacristán, B. Pellegrin, Joséphine Steck, L. Sánchez-Silva
Abstract
This study aimed to improve the performance of epoxy resin coatings for protecting concrete structures from chemical corrosion and surface abrasion. The research involved incorporating Fe2O3 nanoparticles into a carbonaceous matrix in a two-part epoxy resin coating. Concrete slabs with the modified coating underwent accelerated ageing under harsh conditions. It was found that the nanomodified coatings showed a significant improvement in performance compared to unmodified coatings. The effect of the amount of composite added to the epoxy system was analyzed. Results show that adding 3 wt% of the synthesized Fe2O3 nanoparticles into a graphite carbonaceous matrix offered the most promising adhesion values. Moreover, adding 3 wt% of the composite into epoxy resin fulfilled a compromise between adhesion improvement and limiting solubility. Finally, it was found a reduction in the number of nanoparticles emitted after ageing. Overall, the incorporation of Fe2O3 nanoparticles into epoxy resin coatings shows potential for improving their performance and durability.