Demonstration of Smart Fluorescent and Self-Healing Coatings for Severely Corrosive Environments at Vehicle Wash Facilities
Abstract
This project demonstrated the following cost-effective paint maintenance procedures: utilization of smart coatings containing fluorescing compounds, self-healing microcapsules and purpose-formulated surface tolerant coatings to overcoat existing paints. Smart coatings incorporate microcapsules and fluorescing compounds, which are mixed into paint at the time of application. Microcapsules instill the coating with self-healing, corrosion resistance and passive sensing capabilities. Fluorescing compounds improve the coating service life by facilitating faster and better inspections, facilitating early identification of problems and therefore, timely repairs. The overcoating process does not require extensive surface preparation, and can be significantly less expensive than other maintenance practices, particularly when the existing coating contains lead or other hazardous materials. The smart coatings were demonstrated on pipes used in a water handling system for a central vehicle wash facility. The overcoating procedure was demonstrated on two types of structures: steel tanks and corrugated steel hangers. It is recommended that these technologies be implemented as standard practice for coating of steel structures for the Army and DoD.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 2009
- Accession Number
- ADA526315
Entities
People
- Ashok Kumar
- Larry David Stephenson
- Timothy D. Race
- Tony Bochniak
Organizations
- Engineer Research and Development Center