Synergistic Behavior of Polyethyleneimine and Epoxy Monomers Loaded in Mesoporous Silica as a Corrosion-Resistant Self-Healing Epoxy Coating

Abstract

Corrosion is a significant problem and is, to a large extent, responsible for the degradation of metallic parts. In this direction, mesoporous silica particles (MSPs) were synthesized by a sol–gel technique and had an average pore diameter of ∼6.82 nm. The MSPs were loaded with polyethyleneimine (PEI) and epoxy monomers and, after that, carefully mixed into the epoxy matrix to formulate new modified polymeric coatings. The microstructural, compositional, structural, and thermal properties were investigated using various characterizing tools [Transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, hermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy]. TGA confirms the loading of mesoporous silica with a corrosion inhibitor, and its estimated loading amount is ∼8%. The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy properties of the reference and modified coated samples confirm the promising anti-corrosive performance of the synthesized polymeric smart coatings. Localized electrochemical tests (scanning vibrating electrode technique and scanning ion-selective electrode technique) evidence the corrosion inhibition ability of the coating, and its self-healing was also observed during 24 h of immersion. The decent anti-corrosion performance of the modified coatings can be credited to the efficient synergistic effect of the PEI and epoxy monomer.

Polyolefin-Based Smart Self-Healing Composite Coatings Modified with Calcium Carbonate and Sodium Alginate

“…Polyolefin dispersion (CANVERA™ 1110) was purchased from Dow Chemicals. Plain carbon steel coupons (35 mm × 35 mm × 1.0 mm) were provided by a local supplier with the same composition as in our previous research [ 8 ].…”

“…Polymeric coatings have gained widespread recognition as a reliable solution for corrosion prevention [ 8 , 9 ]; among their diverse range, polyolefin coatings have been studied less. Polyolefin coatings have been widely used for corrosion prevention, owing to their hydrophobic nature.…”

Recent Advances in Polymer Nanocomposites: Unveiling the Frontier of Shape Memory and Self-Healing Properties—A Comprehensive Review

“…Self-healing epoxy coatings also depict a distinct anti-corrosion ability when loaded with mesoporous silica (MSP) and polyethyleneimine (PEI). MSP and PEI worked as inhibitors and helped in blocking the defects present in the epoxy coating, hence enhancing its anti-corrosion ability with healing ability [ 47 ].…”