Structure of water-based anti-corrosion coating studied with spin-echo small angle neutron scattering

Water-based coatings are becoming more popular due to their absence of volatile organic compounds. However, due to the migration of surfactants during the drying process, these coatings are thought to have percolation networks and voids. Spin echo small angle neutron scattering will be used to analyse the void network in water-based corrosion resistant coatings. SESANS has a unique ability to measure the density of a sample with a well-defined thickness. This density can be difficult to measure with other techniques in systems with a closed pore network. By measuring dry and wet samples we will be able to show if the voids are responsible for the transfer of water through these films. This work will be done as part of the EPSRC prosperity partnership sustainable coatings by rational design (SusCoRD).