Achieving a super-strengthening functional composite coating from ZnO doped snail shell particulate for mitigation of mild steel towards improved microstructural, corrosion, and opto-electrical properties

Abstract

Long-lasting protective coatings are essential, particularly under harsh operating conditions. Surface coatings provide a flexible alternative; electrodeposition is becoming an established approach for protecting steel. The intent of this study is to determine how effectively zinc oxide (ZnO) coatings for mild steel corrosion protection effect when integrated with snail shell particle (SSP). The experimental setup consisted of producing a coating bath with ZnO and SSP particles, then electrodeposting the mixture under conditions onto polished steel surfaces. The created coatings were subjected to an array of tests, including electrical conductivity and resistivity testing, morphological analysis using SEM/EDS, corrosion testing in a 1M HCl solution, hardness testing. The findings show that when SSP content increases, steel corrosion rates significantly decrease, suggesting improved corrosion resistance from 21.85(mm/yr) to 12.80(mm/yr), and polarization resistance of 4.47E+01(Ω) to 8.00E+01(Ω). Morphological examination shows that SSP particles are dispersed throughout the coating matrix, which promotes adhesion and stability. Also, coatings with more SSP show better electrical characteristics. Overall, the study shows how ZnO-SSP coatings can shield mild steel components from adverse conditions and have prospective uses in sectors where surfaces resistant to corrosion are needed.