COATED STRUCTURAL MEMBERS HAVING IMPROVED RESISTANCE TO CRACKING

摘要

Structural systems having coated structural members with enhanced durability are provided, along with methods of making and using the same. Structural members including at least one coating material applied to a substrate that comprises at least one protrusion may exhibit increased strength and/or durability and may be less likely fail during use. For example, structural members as described herein exhibit an improved resistance to cracking when a force is applied to the protrusion. Structural systems according to embodiments of the present invention can be suitable for use in a variety of applications, including in ready-to-assemble furniture or cabinetry applications or as building and construction materials such as wall board, flooring, trim, and the like.

主权项

1. A structural system comprising:
a structural member comprising a substrate and a coating material coated onto at least a portion of said substrate, wherein said substrate comprises a main body portion and at least one protrusion extending outwardly from said main body portion, wherein said main body portion presents at least one body surface and said protrusion presents at least one protrusion surface, wherein said substrate further comprises at least one junction defined at the intersection of said body surface and said protrusion surface, wherein said coating material is continuously coated between at least a portion of said body surface and at least a portion of said protrusion surface such that said junction is at least partially coated with said coating material, wherein said structural member exhibits a peak stress increase of at least 50 percent, measured along the outer edge of said protrusion, as compared to an identically-configured but uncoated substrate.