Nano/micro particle hybrid composites for scratch and abrasion resistant polyacrylate coatings

UV curable acrylate formulations with a high content of fumes, nano-sized silica were prepared to improve their application for abrasion and scratch resistant top coats. Grafting of trialkoxysilanes onto the surface of nanoparticles facilitated their embedding in the formulation and alleviated the effect of undesired increase in viscosity and dilatancy. Modified nanoparticles were obtained from several organo-silanes and characterized by a multitechnique approach. To avoid problems during redispersion, in situ modification of nano-sized silica was performed using the liquid acrylate formulation as a diluting and deagglomerating agent. These nanocomposite materials exhibit markedly improved properties as compared to neat acrylate coatings, e.g. heat, scratch, and abrasion resistance. However, a much better abrasion resistance was obtained for coatings containing both silica nanoparticles and corundum microparticles, By using various grades of corundum, a synergetic effect of nano/micro hybrid composite materials has been studied for parquet and flooring applications.