Optimizing the preparation of polymer nanocoatings by self-assembly and gamma irradiation of elaidic acid on copper surfaces

Abstract

Self-assembling molecular layers (SAMs) can serve as a densely packed film of monomers that can be easily crosslinked to form nanometer-thick polymer coatings with high protective properties. However, the properties of the resulting coatings are highly dependent on the preparation method used to apply the SAM to the surface.In this work, the influence of different SAM preparation steps (preparation of the oxide layer, self-assembly and drying) on the corrosion resistance of the coated samples, as well as the method of applying the molecules to the surface (immersion, spraying, brush application), was investigated. Elaidic acid, an unsaturated trans fatty acid, was applied to copper and crosslinked with gamma radiation. The properties of the coatings were studied by electrochemical methods, contact angle measurements, XPS, AFM and FTIR. The results show that the oxidation step is crucial for obtaining proper coatings, while the drying at elevated temperatures is not required. It has also been shown that the immersion of samples results in coatings with the best protective properties, while the application by brush can be an alternative method of application. On the other hand, spraying the elaidic acid results in a less uniform coating.