Enhanced corrosion performance induced by boron doping in reduced graphene oxide/aluminum matrix composites

There are some challenges in using aluminum as a cathode material for lithium batteries in acidic corrosive environments. Graphene oxide (GO) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) possess a potential in enhancing the protection role at Al surfaces. To further improve the corrosion resistance, a mixed solution of B-rGO and GO was obtained a protective film on the surface of Al substrates. The microstructure and corrosion properties of the B-rGO/Al composites were investigated. The corrosion resistance mechanism of the composite was analysed. The results showed B were doped in the protective film and play a significant role in determining the corrosion resistance for the B-rGO/Al composite. Compared with the pure Al and rGO/Al composite, the B-rGO/Al composite possessed the superior corrosion resistance, and the fitted current density values of the B-rGO/Al composite, GO/Al composite and pure Al were 83.5 μA/cm −2 , 317 μA/cm −2 and 507 μA/cm −2 , respectively. This was associated with the structural defects and reduction in diffusion path of irons. The aim of this work is to offer insights into efficient protective coating for Al cathodes in acidic environments.