Graphene as a 2D nanomaterial has been extensively researched as a new additive to
improve barrier performance, reducing corrosion and extending service life. Significant uplifts
in anticorrosive performance in solvent based coatings through the use of graphene
nanoplatelets has previously been demonstrated, presenting new opportunities for improved
protective coatings with extended service life. However, water-based coating development
remains a key focus for industry formulators where there is an ongoing effort to reduce the
release of volatile organics and achieve comparable anti-corrosion performance to that seen
in solvent based systems. To date the, dispersion of graphene in water-based systems has
been problematic, causing coating instability or requiring large amounts of surfactant. The
authors report a breakthrough technology enabling easy dispersion in water-based coatings
while delivering improved corrosion performance. This development provides an important
step to raising waterborne coating anti-corrosion performance and extension of water-based
system use.