Synthesis, Characterization and Corrosion Protection Properties of Polyaniline/TiO<sub>2</sub> Nanocomposite

Abstract

In this study, conductive polyaniline (PANi)–titania (TiO2) nanocomposites with core–shell structure were prepared and their anticorrosion properties were investigated. PANi/nano-TiO2 composite were prepared by in situ polymerization of aniline monomer in the presence of TiO2 nanoparticles. The morphology and structure of the polymer nanocomposite was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), respectively. SEM and FTIR spectra measurements show that PANi and TiO2 nanoparticles are not simply blended or mixed up, and a strong interaction exists at the interface of nano-TiO2 and PANi. From the anticorrosion investigation in 3.5%NaCl, it is revealed that the protective performance of epoxy paint containing PANi/nano-TiO2 composite is significantly improved than PANi or a mixture of polyaniline and nano-TiO2. From the improved anticorrosion performance, it also indicate that PANi and TiO2 nanoparticles are not simply blended or mixed up, the strong interaction exists at the interface of PANi and nano-TiO2. It is the strong interaction that results in the coordinated effect and more excellent anticorrosion performance.