The epoxy-siloxane/Al composite coatings with low infrared emissivity for high temperature applications

Low infrared emissivity coatings with good thermal resistance were prepared by using epoxy-siloxane and aluminum as adhesive and pigment, respectively. The influence of chemical composition, surface texture, roughness and thickness on the infrared emissivity was systematically investigated. The detailed results of experimental investigation indicate that the cured composite coatings could possess low emissivity value. Due to reducing infrared absorption and forming uniform and compact char construction, the infrared emissivity decreases obviously. Both the surface roughness and thickness have a critical value, respectively. Too large roughness or thickness would not contribute to the decrease of the emissivity. Moreover, the composite coatings were tested for thermal stability in air to explore the effect of high-temperature environment on the emissivity. The results indicate that the composite coatings, still possessing low emissivity after the test, exhibit favorable thermal ageing and thermal shock resistance. (C) 2009 Elsevier B. V. All rights reserved.