Preparation and characteristics of polymer matrix composite coatings with low infrared emissivity and high‐temperature resistance

Abstract With the rapid advances in detection technologies for modern warfare, it is of great significance to develop advanced infrared stealth technology. Owing to the complex operational environment of weapons and equipment during the practical application, a high thermal resistance is significant for infrared stealth materials. Therefore, in this study, a high‐temperature coating with low infrared emissivity was developed via spraying of poly(phthalazinone ether nitrile ketone) (PPENK) resin as binder and flake aluminum powder as filler. The variation in infrared emissivity of the composite coating with respect to filler content was studied. Apart from the thermal resistance of the composite coating, the effects of temperature on the surface morphology, chemical composition, mechanical properties, and infrared emissivity of the composite coatings were systematically examined. The lowest infrared emissivity (0.136) was achieved with 40% filler. Even after being heated at 450°C for 1 h, the composite coating exhibited excellent adhesion and impact resistance with negligible increase in emissivity, exemplifying its robust performance. The PPENK/Al composite coating can be engineered on a large scale, thanks to the simple preparation route and, has great potential as a new material for high‐temperature infrared stealth application.