Preparation and healing property evaluation of self-repairing polymer coating

Abstract

The self-repairing polymer coating based on microencapsulated epoxy resin agent and catalyst was prepared. Defects in the coating were successfully healed when epoxy resin was released from the microcapsules, which were ruptured under simulated mechanical action. Polymer healed area was found to prevent corrosion of the substrate, which was analysed by scanning electron microscopy. The healing efficiency was determined using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The local corrosion activity of the damaged coating on the carbon steel was evaluated. The impedance spectroscopy of the self-healing coating showed measurable improvements of anticorrosion performance after defect creation.