Superhydrophobic sponge under ventilation: A novel approach for corrosion inhibition

Abstract

Superhydrophobicity has attracted wide interest for metal corrosion inhibition. However, the short sustainability in underwater environment is a major barrier that hinders its practical application. In this study, we used a superhydrophobic sponge as cushion to isolate metal from bulk water phase. The superhydrophobic sponge matrix drastically alleviates underwater immersion corrosion. Water vapour from bulk seawater can be transported outside by inletting dry air to maintain dry environment as long as the ventilation exists. Compared with bare steel and the steel covered with the sole superhydrophobic sponge, the ventilated superhydrophobic sponge matrix effectively facilitated corrosion inhibition environment for steel.