EFFECT OF UV INITIATOR ON DEVELOPING POLYMERBASED COATING

Hydrogels have gained considerable attention globally due to their distinct ability to retain substantial amounts of water without structural alteration, making them valuable for application in diverse fields. This research investigates hydrogel formation, particularly emphasising the influence of crosslinkers, initiators, and exposure to UV intensity on the polymerisation process. Several hydrogel samples were made under different UV exposure durations to investigate the influence of exposure time on the polymerisation process. It was revealed that when the sample was exposed to low-intensity UV light for a prolonged period, a range of structures, from crystalline to dehydrated forms, formed. In contrast, a high-intensity UV light failed to initiate the polymerisation process. The characterisation of the developed polymer samples was conducted by scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), and fouriertransform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The study focuses on the need for standardised procedures in hydrogel research and highlights the potential of these materials for sustainable building solutions. By establishing well-documented methods for hydrogel synthesis, this research proposes a foundation for future advancements in solar reflective coatings to reduce building energy consumption and enhance environmental sustainability.