Enhanced corrosion protection of bronze artifacts with self-healing coatings: the role of micro/nano containers

In a world where the preservation of cultural heritage has gained increasing significance, metallic artifacts stand out as invaluable treasures that require specialized protection from corrosion and damage. While traditional conservation methods often aim to control and minimize damage, self-healing techniques emerge as an effective solution that has the ability to repair damage autonomously, enhance protection, and reduce the need for repeated interventions. This article explores the innovative application of self-healing coatings that incorporate micro/nano containers coatings that effectively release corrosion inhibitors in response to failures in the coating systems, thus extending the lifespan of metal artifacts while preserving their integrity and aesthetic values. It provides a comprehensive and updated review of self-healing mechanisms, with a focus on recent advancements in self-healing anticorrosion coatings utilize micro/nano carriers. This review aims to identify their systems, designs, functionalities, and mechanisms, to evaluate their advantages and disadvantages, and addresses current challenges and future directions, including the demand for more sustainable materials and the incorporation of self-healing coatings in conservation efforts. By carefully analyzing the role of these materials in resolving coating challenges; the study aims to provide in-depth insights that contribute to develop suitable solutions for preserving bronze artifacts.