Cellulose microfibers (CMFs) reinforced smart self-healing polymeric composite coatings for corrosion protection of steel

Abstract

The use of organic coating for the metals has been widely being used to protect the surface against corrosion. Polymeric coating incorporated with Nanocontainers loaded with inhibitor and self-healing provides better corrosion resistance. Cellulose microfibers (CMFs) used as smart carriers were synthesized and loaded with dodecylamine (DOC)-inhibitor and polyethyleneimine (PEI)-both inhibitor and self-healing agents. Smart polymeric coatings were developed by mixing CMF/DOC and CMFs/PEI into the epoxy matrix. Reference coatings (that has only CMFs) were also prepared for a compersion. Scanning electron microscope (SEM), X-ray diffraction spectroscopy (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and thermal gravitational analysis (TGA) were used to confirm the loading of DOC and PEI onto the CMFs. UV-vis analysis indicates that the self-release of inhibitor from CMFs is sensitive to pH of the solution and the immersion time. Recovery of controlled surface damage confirms the decent self-healing ability of the prepared smart coatings is due to the efficient release of inhibitor (DOC) and self-healing agent (PEI) in the damaged area leading to the formation of a protective film. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) results demonstrate that corrosion resistance of the smart coating increases with an increase in immersion time which is due to the progressive release of inhibitors from CMFs in response to the pH change. Therefore, smart coatings demonstrate superior properties as compared to the reference coatings. The study reveals the polymeric composite coatings have potential to inhibit the corrosion of steel for oil and gas industry.