Physico-mechanical properties of emulsion paint embedded with silver nanoparticles

This study reports the influence of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) on some selected physical and mechanical properties of emulsion paint. AgNPs solution of different concentrations (0, 0.15, 0.175, 0.20 and 0.35 wt% AgNPs) were prepared via green synthesis involving reduction of silver nitrate using extract of cobwebs. Each paint sample contained 0.35 wt% of combined AgNPs and biocide acticide (benzimidazole carbamate, EPW) at different proportions. The samples were then characterized for structural, physical and mechanical properties. Transmission electron microscopy images showed that AgNPs are generally spherical in shape with size in the range of 3–50 nm. X-ray diffraction spectra indicate that the formulation contained Ag, TiO₂ and CaCO₃ . Extensive characterization indicates that the paint containing equal fraction (0.175 wt%) of AgNPs and EPW gave the optimal mix for all physical and mechanical properties examined. The specific gravity was reduced by 16%, the hiding power/opacity increased by 30% while the abrasion strength was enhanced by 236%. Our results were compared with other nanoparticles, especially ZnO and Fe₂O₃ , and found to require lower concentration while creating greater effects. The results of this study will assist paint industries to maximize the benefits of nanotechnology. (author)