α-Fe2O3/Fe3O4@GO nanosheets boost the functionality of Ni[sbnd]P thin film deposited by electroless method

Abstract

The highly active heterogeneous iron oxide@graphene oxide (α-Fe2O3/Fe3O4@GO) composite was produced using a simple assembly method to incorporate into the electroless NiP thin film to enhance its performance. It was thoroughly characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman Spectroscopy, Fourier transformed infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and N2 adsorption-desorption tests. The outcomes showed that the α-Fe2O3/Fe3O4 nanoparticles were uniformly and densely distributed on the GO sheets, with a tiny diameter of about 160 nm.Ni-P/α-Fe2O3/Fe3O4@GO composite coatings were created on low-carbon steel using an acidic electroless plating bath containing various α-Fe2O3/Fe3O4@GO nanosheets. The protective effect of co-deposited nanosheets on the corrosion behavior of the coatings was examined in a 3.5 % NaCl solution. Electrochemical techniques, including electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and potentiodynamic polarization investigations, were used to evaluate the layers' corrosion resistance. The outcomes demonstrate that adding α-Fe2O3/Fe3O4@GO significantly increases the coatings' ability to resist corrosion. Maximum corrosion resistance was achieved at a dosage of 50 mgl−1 α-Fe2O3/Fe3O4@GO nanosheets in the plating bath. According to the SEM images the α-Fe2O3/Fe3O4@GO were implanted in the NiP matrix and were evenly disseminated over the coated surface. Moreover, the incorporation of α-Fe2O3/Fe3O4@GO enhances the mechanical properties of NiP thin film.Because of its improved performance, ease of synthesis, and low cost, this coating layer warrants more consideration as a good option for possible application to safeguard carbon steel utilized in the atmosphere.