Selection and study of alkoxysilanes as loading in submicrocapsules for self-lubricating coatings

Abstract The possibility and conditions for the formation of nano- or submicrocapsules loaded with hydrophobic active ingredients (alkoxysilanes) into the matrix of coatings with self-lubricating effect are considered. The optimal composition of the alkoxysilane submicrocapsules, and their physicochemical properties were determined. The longer the radical chain length is, the lower is the rate of hydrolysis, and, accordingly, the more stable is the formed emulsion. The methods of laser correlation spectroscopy in measuring the size and zeta potentials of the submicrocapsules with different loads of the active agent allowed to determine the optimal ratios of the active ingredients. The optimal concentration of the active agent is between 4 and 9%. Based on contact angle studies, octadecyltrimethoxysilane was selected as optimum compound. The introduction of 4 wt% of octadecyltrimethoxysilane reduces the friction coefficient of coatings by 20–30% under vibrating motion and by 15–20% under continuous motion. The data obtained can also be useful for the encapsulation of other hydrophobic active agents and for various other purposes, for example, for the introduction of biocidal agents.