Intelligent Smart Coatings for Enhanced Corrosion Protection in Carbon Steel

This study explores a new approach for corrosion protection of carbon steel, focusing on the application of polymeric coatings. Anticorrosive pigments were synthesized by loading 2-Mercaptobenzothiazole into zirconium oxide particles, and then an epoxy coating was applied on a steel substrate to analyze the corrosion inhibition activity. Analytical techniques like FTIR and XRD confirmed the successful loading of corrosion inhibitors onto zirconium dioxide nanoparticles (ZrO2), revealing changes in chemical bonding and structural patterns. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) confirmed the spheroidal morphology of ZrO2 after inhibitor loading, while contact angle measurements showed improved hydrophobicity due to reduced porosity from the nanoparticles. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) showed enhanced corrosion resistance in the modified coatings compared to reference coatings, demonstrating stable impedance values and delayed electrolyte uptake. These findings suggest the potential of the developed coating system in mitigating carbon steel corrosion, offering insights for its application across various industries.