Preparation of a novel IPDI/PUF@CeO2 bi-functional microcapsules and its improvement for the self-healing and anti-corrosion performance in epoxy coatings

This research aims to improve the protective performance of coatings in harsh corrosive conditions by using functionalized self-healing microcapsules. CeO 2 /PUF MCs and PUF MCs were prepared via one-step emulsion polymerization. The microcapsules were implanted into epoxy coatings to investigate their self-healing performance. Multiple testing techniques, including SEM, FTIR, XRD, TGA, EIS, and NSS were used to characterize the morphology, crystal structure, chemical composition, thermal properties, and self-healing performance of the microcapsules and coatings. The experimental results indicated that the CeO 2 /PUF MCs had a spherical core-shell structure with a rough surface and an average diameter of 1583 nm. Meanwhile, the minimum corrosion products and the highest low-frequency impedance were found in CeO 2 /PUF MCs coating with artificial scratch, which demonstrated that the self-healing and anti-corrosion performance were significantly improved by the newly developed bi-functional microcapsules. • The novel IPDI@PUF/CeO 2 bi-functional microcapsules were prepared by a simple one-step emulation polymerization. • The IPDI core repaired the cracks of coatings, and the PUF/CeO 2 shell generated a passive film on the metallic matrix. • The CeO 2 /PUF MCs coatings had better corrosion resistance and self-healing performance.