Silicon plays an extremely critical role in the field of anticorrosive coatings, greatly improving the protective performance of coatings. Its unique chemical structure is the source of its excellent performance. The main chain is composed of silicon oxygen bonds (Si-O-Si), and the bond energy is as high as 452KJ/mol, which is much higher than the C-O and C-C bond energies in the molecular structure of ordinary anticorrosive coatings, and higher than the ultraviolet radiation energy. This characteristic gives silicone anticorrosive coatings excellent weather resistance, effectively resisting the degradation of environmental factors such as ultraviolet rays and ozone. It is not easy to fade, powder, and crack in long-term outdoor use, and can provide reliable protection for steel structures and concrete for more than 15 years.
The organic side chains in the molecular structure of silicone make it hydrophobic, with weak intermolecular forces, and the coating formed is hydrophobic. This characteristic can reduce the contact area between the coating and water and other polar corrosive media, slow down the generation rate of corrosion products, and inhibit corrosion. For example, in a humid environment, it can effectively prevent water penetration and reduce the risk of corrosion of the metal substrate.
Silicon coatings also have excellent heat and cold resistance. The Si-O-Si bond of the main chain has higher bond energy than the C-C chain of general organic matter, which enables the coating to withstand high temperatures. The organic side chain gives it low-temperature resistance, which broadens the application scenarios. In high-temperature places, such as chimneys, exhaust pipes, etc., or in extremely cold temperature environments, silicone elastic anti-corrosion coatings can maintain their performance in the range of -60℃ - 200℃ to protect the coated objects.
In addition, silicone coatings have strong adhesion to the substrate and strong cohesion. Even if the coating is pulled off by external force, it will not fall off the metal surface, effectively preventing corrosion from spreading to the bottom of the coating, greatly extending the service life of the protected object. It is a long-term anti-corrosion solution and is widely used in many industries with strict anti-corrosion requirements such as petroleum, chemical, electric power, and construction.