Multifunctional anti-corrosion coatings based on 2D/3D structure-function integrated nanomaterials for steel protection

Most conventional organic anti-corrosion coatings cannot provide long-term protection for metals due to their limited functionality. Here, a smart anti-corrosion coating (ZLIP/EP) is developed by incorporating a 2D/3D structure-function integrated nanomaterial (ZLIP) into the coating matrix. ZLIP consists of polyethylene glycol (PEG)-encapsulated dodecahedral layered double hydroxide (LDH) nanocages, which contain corrosion inhibitor imidazoline (IM). Compared to ZIF-67 added to the coating, the 2D LDH layers of ZLIP can effectively extend the electrolyte solution's penetration path within the coating. When the composite coating is damaged, the LDH layers can capture chloride ions in the electrolyte solution, while IM is released to suppress corrosion. Moreover, the IM stored in the unique 3D hollow structure of ZLIP can also be released and subsequently adsorbed onto the steel substrate to further improve the active corrosion protection ability of the coating. The electrochemical test reveal that the |Z| 0.01Hz of ZLIP/EP remains as high as 68.8 MΩ·cm 2 after long-term immersion (40 days), demonstrating superior corrosion resistance . The ZLIP/EP system developed in this study shows significant promise for practical anti-corrosion applications. • A 2D/3D structure-function hybrid nanomaterial (ZLIP) is prepared. • ZLIP can capture chloride ions and release corrosion inhibitor imidazoline. • An intelligent corrosion-resistant coating based on ZLIP (ZLIP/EP) is developed.