Effect of nano ZnO containing sol-gel coating on galvanised iron sheet

Abstract

Purpose – This paper aims to investigate the potential of sol-gel coating as replacement for hazardous hexavalent chrome passivation treatment for galvanised iron (GI) sheet. Generally, corrosion resistance properties of the GI sheet are increased by hexavalent chrome passivation treatment. But hexavalent chrome is hazardous and not environment friendly. Design/methodology/approach – The aim of this study was to understand the effect of nano zinc oxide (ZnO) on corrosion behaviour of sol-gel coating prepared by hydrolysis of the 3-(Glycidoxy propyl) methyl diethoxy silane (GPTMS) and tetra-ethyl-orthosilicate (TEOS). The morphology of the film was characterised by a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The corrosion resistance of the coated samples was evaluated by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), potentiodynamic polarisation curve and salt spray test. Findings – From a different corrosion resistance study, it has been observed that sol-gel coating doped with 1 per cent nano ZnO rendered maximum corrosion protection. Beyond 1 per cent of nano ZnO, corrosion resistance property of coated galvanised steel sheet decreased drastically which may be due to agglomeration of nano ZnO and high water permeability of coated galvanised steel sheet. Research limitations/implications – The anti-corrosive property of the coating can be tested by means of atmospheric exposure which produces a real-time evaluation of the anti-corrosive nature of the coating under natural conditions rather than using an accelerated laboratory test. Practical implications – It may be useful for other metal industry like aluminium. The work can be used as a guiding chemistry for development of chrome-free passivation for aluminium. Social implications – It has the potential to replace hexavalent chrome passivation. Originality/value – The use of nano ZnO in sol-gel polymer matrix for the development of corrosion resistant chrome-free polymer coating for galvanised steel sheet and its corrosion resistance study (EIS curve fitting, capacitance value and water permeability) is a novel approach in this research.