TRIBOELECTRIC PROPERTIES OF THERMAL SPRAY CERAMIC COATING ON HEAVY-DUTY BUILDING COMPONENTS STEEL MATRIX

The triboelectric response of ceramic coatings has attracted attention for multifunctional applications in structural engineering, where durability and self-powered sensing are critical. This research investigates the triboelectric properties of thermal spray ceramic coating on heavy-duty building components steel matrix coatings. Ceramic coatings of magnesium spinel (MgAl 2 O 4 ) and Alumina (Al 2 O 3 ) were deposited onto a steel matrix for heavy-duty building components using atmospheric plasma spraying (APS) and high-velocity oxy-fuel (HVOF) processes. The triboelectric behavior was evaluated in terms of dielectric strength, surface charge generation, charge retention, and electrical resistivity under varying environmental conditions. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to observe surface morphology and porosity, while X-ray diffraction (XRD) identified phase composition and crystallinity. Surface profilometry quantified roughness, a key factor influencing triboelectric charge density. Electrical properties were evaluated using direct current (DC) resistance measures, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and the dielectric breakdown test. Triboelectric performance was further assessed by measuring surface potential and charge output under repeated contact–separation cycles. Tests were conducted across relative humidity (RH) levels ([Formula: see text] at elevated temperatures (50–[Formula: see text]C). Results showed that HVOF-deposited MgAl 2 O 4 coatings exhibited superior dielectric breakdown strength, stable resistivity, and consistent triboelectric charge output under high-humidity conditions. In contrast, Al 2 O 3 coatings demonstrated higher charge density at low humidity and were more sensitive to moisture-induced charge dissipation. It demonstrates the thermal spray ceramic coatings’ possibilities in improving both mechanical and triboelectric properties of steel matrices, enabling smart, energy-harvesting building structures with long-term reliability.