A multifunctional hybrid MXene/ZIF/semiconductor-based coating for photocatalytic degradation and long-term marine corrosion protection

In this study, a multifunctional hybrid nanocomposite coating, designated as NanoTri-Shield, was developed to enhance both photocatalytic activity and long-term corrosion protection in saline environments. The innovation lies in the hierarchical integration of aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES)-functionalized Mo 3 C 2 Tx MXene (AMX) with CeO 2 -decorated mixed-ligand-etched ZIF nanocarriers (Ce@LZIF) and embedded zinc/phosphate (ZP) corrosion inhibitors within a unified protective system. The synthesis route employs a sequential sol–gel encapsulation and ligand-induced etching technique, enabling optimal dispersion and interfacial compatibility of nanofillers within the epoxy matrix. Photocatalytic tests showed 97% degradation of methylene blue (MB) under UV and 80% under visible light, driven by superoxide (O 2 •- ) and hydroxyl (OH • ) radicals, confirmed by ESR and radical scavenging studies. The electron transfer mechanism facilitated by MXene sheets significantly suppressed recombination, yielding superior photo-reactivity. Recyclability tests over five cycles revealed negligible loss in catalytic performance, confirming structural durability. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and salt spray evaluations revealed outstanding anti-corrosion performance. After 90 days of immersion in 3.5wt% NaCl, the intact E-ZP/Ce@LZIF/AMX coating retained an impedance modulus |Z| 0.01Hz of 1.26×10 10 Ω·cm 2 . The E-ZP/Ce@LZIF/AMX coating showed self-healing index up to 1.947, R t 126510 Ω·cm 2 , and R ct 119310 Ω·cm 2 , maintaining superior anti-corrosion performance over 72 h in 3.5% NaCl. These findings highlight the promise of this hybrid system for photocatalyst and marine coating applications.