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Incorporation of nanocomposites materials in coverings for
development of intumescent paints
S. Rocha 1 , F.D. Magalhães 1,2.3 and J. Pimenta 2,3
1 Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Portugal.
2 LEPAE - Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Portugal
3 Association Network for Competence in Polymers - Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto,
Portugal
A paint is a pigmented product (liquid, paste or powder) that when applied in a particular
material forms a film with decorative, protective or other properties, [1]. The intumescent
paints have a specific property: when in contact with high temperatures (above 200 ºC) they
form a carbonaceous foam with a density expansion of about forty times, which protects the
substrate from heat.
The main objective of this work is the development of intumescent paints reinforced with
nanosilica in order to increase their heat resistance, improving the mechanical strength and the
thickness of the intumescent foam.
The first step to make intumescent paints is the preparation of the nanosilica dispersion in
water, which is subject to some tests to characterize its quality. Then this dispersion is mixed
with a polymeric emulsion, which constitutes the binder for the paint. Afterward, this emulsion
is combined with the solid components (pigment and reactive additives that will cause the
development of the intumescence above a certain temperature). The final paint is then
characterized to verify the quality of the formed carbonaceous foam after heat exposure.
In conclusion, combining the properties of nanosilica particles with the polymeric emulsion,
the homogeneity and mechanical strength of the carbonaceous foam increase. Therefore, it is
possible to delay the raise of temperature in the protected material.
References:
[1] Nogueira, J.L.; Noções Básicas de Tintas e Vernizes – Volume I; Colecção ARCP.
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