Polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane/epoxy coatings: a review

Nowadays, there is a need for a paradigm shift in material selection for surface coatings so as to meet the requirements of advanced systems. Polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes (POSS) are three-dimensional networks with a silica-like core covered by an organic shell, a promising nanosized structure for organic coatings. The use of POSS structures in coating materials has experienced an almost erratic period over the past decade, mainly because of the synthesis of POSS being exclusive and, to some extent, expressive. However, there has been a big return to the use of POSS in coatings during the last years. Epoxy is best known for its versatility of usage as an organic coating. Hybrid organic–inorganic POSS nanostructures with unique properties are a complement to the epoxy for coating applications. The tailorable compatibility and considerable reactivity of POSS molecules towards organic groups have made them promising candidates for emerging multifunctional epoxy coatings. In this sense, the focus of this review is placed on POSS/epoxy nanocomposite coatings. The thermal, mechanical, anti-corrosion and dielectric properties of POSS/epoxy coatings have been comprehensively studied and discussed.