Abstract
Mica is a naturally layered material recognized for its superior insulation and exceptional barrier properties; however, it is prone to agglomeration, and its compatibility with resin remains to be resolved. In this work, phosphate butynediol ethoxylate (PBEO), synthesized by the reaction of a commercial corrosion inhibitor, butynediol ethoxylate, with phosphorus pentoxide, was employed to modify mica nanosheets (MNs), as evidenced by FTIR, Raman, and XPS. The obtained MN@PBEO demonstrated improved water dispersibility and enhanced compatibility with acrylic latex. EIS measurements revealed that the impedance (|Z|(0.01Hz)) for the waterborne acrylic coating with 0.5 wt% MN@PBEO was approximately an order of magnitude greater than that of the pure waterborne acrylic coating after 28 days of immersion in a 3.5 wt% NaCl solution. Additionally, compared to the pure waterborne acrylic coating, the 0.5 wt% MN@PBEO/acrylic nanocomposite coating on Q235 carbon steel exhibited a water diffusion coefficient that was roughly ten times lower, demonstrating substantially enhanced corrosion protection, attributable to its superior barrier properties.