Abstract
In this paper, an ultra-scratch-resistant, hydrophobic and transparent coating was fabricated by the sol–gel method using (3-Glycidyloxypropyl) triethoxysilane (GPTES) and curing agents. When the silanol was condensated, the ring-opening reaction of the epoxy groups also took place, which formed a double-cross-linked network (Si–O–Si and R3N). This network structure restricted the molecule chains from being twisted or dislocated, resulting in a great improvement of the abrasion resistance of the coating. A pencil hardness grade up to 8H was obtained. The coating also showed excellent stability after being soaked in pH = 2 and pH = 12 solutions, seawater and acetone, respectively. In addition, a water contact angle of 121° was obtained by post-treatment with hexamethyldisilazane (HMDS). The average transmittance of the coating reached to 90% in the wavelength range of 400~800 nm, nearly identical to the glass substrate. With multiple desirable properties and a simple fabrication process, this low-cost coating shows great potential in many practical applications.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
