Infrared and ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy study of the degradation of polyester and polyester/ethylene methyl acrylate copolymer blend coatings on steel

Abstract

Thermally sprayed polymer coatings have been used as protection against corrosion and wear. The aim of this study was to produce coated steel with a blend film with low-velocity combustion thermal spraying and a fusion technique and to evaluate its chemical degradation with infrared and ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy. The substrate used was carbon steel coated with recycled poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET), an ethylene/methacrylic acid copolymer (EMAA), or PET-EMAA blends. The degradation of the material was evaluated with an ultraviolet condensation-weathering test and a salt-spray test. Measurements of hardness and adhesion were carried out. The tribological properties of the polymeric films were evaluated with a pin-on-disc test.