Epoxy-matrix MMT-filled nanocomposite coatings onto aluminum substrates

Epoxy base nanocomposite coatings were prepared by using organomodified montmorillonite (MMT) as filler and aluminum as substrate. A fast fabrication procedure was utilized so as to investigate the feasibility of industrial processes. After optimization of the coating process conditions, MMT filled coatings were produced by changing the MMT content and the mixing time. Many tests were performed to evaluate the coating performances: scratch and wear test, surface and gloss analysis. The effect of the MMT content on the coating properties is noticeable but not always ameliorative. On the other hand, it is questionable if the direct strengthening effect of the MMT particles is stronger than the indirect effect of the filler on the coating thickness. Anyway, best performances were measured in the case of low MMT content even if data scattering can be high.