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Abstract: Fluorinated polymers find applications in various speciality coatings due to their low surface tension, non-wettability by water and oil, non-adhesive nature and antifouling properties. However, synthesis and composition of such fluorinated polymers remains a proprietary of few manufacturers and also requires expensive fluoro-intermediates. In this study we have adopted a simple method of synthesizing fluorinated acrylic copolymers. Acrylic copolymers based on methyl methacrylate (MMA), butyl acrylate (BA), and functional monomer, 2-hydroxy ethyl methacrylate (HEMA) were synthesized. The pendant onality were partially esterified with tetrafluoro propanoic acid to varying extent and cured with butylated melamine–formaldehyde resin. The fluorine content of the resins was in the range of 4–10%. The clear coatings were studied for their optical, mechanical and protective properties. Incorporation of fluorine was found to extend the protective ability of coatings against atmospheric corrosion. The properties were compared with their non-fluorinated analogs. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Metals like steel undergo corrosion over a period when exposed to atmosphere. Because of their low cost, versatility and aesthetic attributes, organic coatings are the natural choice for corrosion protection. The exact mechanism by which these coatings retard the corrosion reaction is not yet fully understood. However, it is the barrier nature of polymer to the passage of oxygen and water, which is responsible for corrosion protection. Barrier nature of a polymer and its relation to the structure of polymer is extensively studied and successfully exploited in other areas like membranes, packaging. However, such a systematic study in the area of coating is not yet reported. This article reviews the relationship between structure of polymer and its permeability to oxygen and water. Detailed study of such correlation will enable selection of the polymer for required protective action. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]