Simple preparation of long-persistent luminescent paint with superhydrophobic anticorrosion efficiency from cellulose nanocrystals and an acrylic emulsion

Abstract Novel photoluminescent paint was prepared for safety marking purposes using an emulsion system composed of an acrylic polymer, cellulose nanocrystals and lanthanide-doped strontium aluminate (LdSA) nanopaticles. The effect of LdSA concentration in the paint formula was investigated. Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) have been an attractive reinforcement material that can be incorporated into protective coatings due to their distinctive properties, such as biocompatibility, biodegradability, and renewability. The produced acrylic/cellulose nanocrystals/lanthanide-doped strontium aluminate paints were applied onto different surfaces of asphalt concrete and tinplate panels. LdSA was developed in the nano-scale form as described by transmission electron microscope (TEM) to allow a better dispersion in the paint formula. The applied paints were studied by energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), scan electron microscopy (SEM), and infrared spectra (FTIR). Both transparency and coloration measurements of the applied paints were investigated by luminescence spectra and CIE Lab. The resistance to scratching, hydrophobic and corrosion resistivity were investigated. CNCs were monitored to be a key component for the anti-corrosion activity. The best long-lived luminescence was monitored for more that 60 min in the dark for LdSA concentration of 12% w/w. The paints containing cellulose nanocrystals and sodium hexametaphosphate demonstrated satisfactory results upon mixing with acrylic emulsion.