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Multifunctional performance of nanocarbon-reinforced UV-curable coatings: role of filler dispersion and loading on surface and fire properties
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DOI：10.1007/s42247-026-01478-5.png)
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Abstract
En 中文
The performance degradation of recycled polyvinyl chloride (rPVC) materials remains a key limitation for their wider application, particularly under environmental exposure involving moisture, ultraviolet (UV) radiation, and mechanical stress. The incorporation of functional additives has emerged as an effective strategy to enhance the durability and multifunctional performance of PVC-based systems. In this study, nanocarbon additives in the form of graphene nanoplatelets (GNP) and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were incorporated into UV-curable polyurethane (PU-UV) coatings applied on recycled PVC kenaf composites. The coatings were prepared with filler loadings of 1–5 wt% and evaluated in terms of wettability, tribological behaviour, flammability, and accelerated weathering resistance. At 3 wt% loading, GNP exhibited optimal dispersion, achieving a hydrophobic contact angle of 97° and superior wear resistance due to the formation of a stable tribofilm. In contrast, MWCNT showed reduced wear resistance due to agglomeration but improved flame retardancy through the formation of a compact carbonaceous char layer. Nanocarbon systems delayed ignition despite an increase in peak heat release rate. Accelerated weathering demonstrated excellent durability, with flexural strength retention exceeding 97% after prolonged exposure. The results highlight the critical role of nanocarbon additives in tailoring the surface performance and durability of recycled PVC-based composites. This study provides insight into the design of multifunctional additive systems for enhancing the performance of recycled polymer materials. Nanocarbon additives improve durability of recycled PVC-based composites. Graphene enhances surface hydrophobicity and tribological performance. Carbon nanotubes promote char formation and improve flame resistance. Multifunctional performance optimised at intermediate filler loading. Additive-modified coatings enhance environmental stability of composite systems.
Keywords:
UV-curable coatings
Polyurethane
Nanocarbon reinforcement
Graphene
Carbon nanotubes
Surface performance
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4.1
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503
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2.8K
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