Acid activation–based growth behaviors and enhanced corrosion resistance of layer-by-layer Mg/Al-CO32– layered double hydroxide film on a steel substrate

Abstract

In situ grown layered double hydroxide (LDH) films can provide corrosion protection for more reactive metals such as Mg, Al, Zn, and their alloys; however, LDH films on steel have not been extensively studied. In this work, in situ grown Mg/Al-CO32– LDH films were prepared on a steel matrix using a hydrothermal process, and the growth behaviors of the LDH films on the steel matrix were firstly investigated, which was tailored by the various hydrothermal reaction times as well as temperature rising times during the initial hydrothermal process. The results showed acid activation–based growth behavior and a layer-by-layer growth pattern of the Mg/Al-CO32– LDH film on the steel substrate. These results revealed the essential role of acid activation in the formation of LDH films on steel, providing guidance for improved preparation and applicability of LDH film formation on steel.