The combination of UV-curing and nanocomposite technology
has been studied to produce cost-effective coatings with
superior physical and mechanical properties. The clay was
modified with dimethyl dihydrogenated-tallow quaternary
ammonium salt and made organophilic. The effect of the
organoclay(2-10 phr) on curing rate, mechanical, thermal and
physical properties of a urethane-acrylate coating has been
determined. X-ray diffraction analysis, AFM, SEM and TEM
images as well as the tensile properties of different
formulations have confirmed the uniform distribution of
organoclay in polymer matrix. At 3 phr organoclay addition,
the UV-cured film exhibited the best mechanical performance
due to the formation of both intercalated and exfoliated
morphologies. Curing time was reduced and the initial thermal
decomposition temperature shifted 50°C to higher temperature
by the incorporation of small amount of organoclay. The
nanocomposite coating was also found to be more resistant
against scratching compared with clay-free coating
