Impedance Spectroscopy Studies Research Articles

Enhancing the performance of AZO/ZnO-i/CdS/ CSTS hybrid solar cell by incorporating an ultra-thin P3HT layer: a combined simulation and impedance spectroscopy study using experimental results

Enhancing the performance of AZO/ZnO-i/CdS/ CSTS hybrid solar cell by incorporating an ultra-thin P3HT layer: a combined simulation and impedance spectroscopy study using experimental results

Exploring HgO Effect on Structural, Dielectric, Optical, and Radiation Shielding Properties of Borate-based Glass

Abstract Glass samples in the system 60-xB2O3+20BaO+20K2O+xHgO (0≤x≤15 mol.%) were prepared via melt quenching method. Infrared spectroscopy revealed structural modifications with increasing HgO content, characterized by a shift in the BO4/BO3 ratio. Dielectric and impedance spectroscopy studies indicated enhanced ionic conductivity with higher HgO concentrations. Optical properties, including refractive index, extinction coefficient, and optical band gap, were determined. The optical absorption edge exhibited a red shift with increasing HgO, attributed to structural changes. Refractive index measurements showed an anomalous dispersion behavior at shorter wavelengths, followed by normal dispersion at longer wavelengths. Optical band gap calculations indicated a decrease with increasing HgO content, suggesting increased disorder. The mass attenuation coefficient (MAC) and linear attenuation coefficient (LAC) were calculated using the Phy-X/PSD software. Increasing HgO content led to a significant enhancement in both MAC and LAC values, particularly at lower energies. The mean free path (MFP) exhibited a corresponding decrease with higher HgO content. Overall, the results demonstrate the potential of these glasses as effective radiation shielding materials.

Thermally Deposited Pt/InSe/Nb2O5/Ag Stacked Layers Designed as Negative Capacitance Sources and Antennas for 5 G/6 G Networks

Herein, Pt/InSe/Nb2O5/Ag (ISNO) stacked layers are designed as multichannel 5 G/6 G network antennas and negative capacitance (NC) sources. The devices are fabricated using thermal deposition technique to coat Pt/InSe thin films with transparent Nb2O5 dielectric windows. While Pt thin films induce the crystallinity of InSe, the Nb2O5 layer remains amorphous. The impedance spectroscopy studies show that the Pt/InSe/Ag (IS) and (ISNO) antenna channels exhibit resonance–antiresonance peaks at driving frequencies of ≈0.4 and ≈1.1 GHz, respectively. Both the IS and ISNO antenna channels exhibit the NC effect in a wide range of frequency domain. In addition, ISNO antennas show signal transmission above 1.70 GHz with a return loss value of 28 dB and voltage standing wave ratios of 1.20. The range of frequencies over which the antenna performs well (bandwidth) extends from 1.54 to 1.80 GHz. Practical tests of one‐port and two‐port reflection/transmission using a network analyzer operative in the frequency domain of 0.01–6.0 GHz highlight the system's differing isolation and coupling characteristics at 2.43 and 6.0 GHz, respectively. The high levels of isolation at 6.0 GHz assure the suitability of the system for applications requiring minimal reverse transmission and high signal integrity. The NC effect, wide bandwidth, and high signal isolation characteristics are preferable in electronics and 5 G/6 G networks.

Structural, magnetic and dielectric properties in double perovskite La2-xScxCoMnO6 (x = 0.0, 0.1, and 0.2)

The effect of Sc doping on structural, magnetic, and dielectric properties of double perovskite La2CoMnO6 synthesized by solid-state method was investigated. Crystal structure of La2-xScxCoMnO6 (x = 0.0, 0.1, and 0.2) compounds confirmed through X-ray diffraction patterns (XRD). Rietveld refinement of the XRD revealed the monoclinic phase with P21/n space group and the structural properties such as lattice parameter, bond lengths, and bond angles were obtained. Field emission scanning electron microscopy images revealed a uniform grain distribution, and the grain size was increased with increasing Sc content. The elemental mapping confirms the stoichiometry of the compounds. The room temperature Raman spectra confirm the monoclinic crystal structure and reveal two broad peaks viz., Ag, and Bg which were attributed to specific vibrational modes within the (Co/Mn)O6 octahedra. Magnetic measurements show that Curie temperature (Tc1) decreases with Sc substitution of 206 K for x = 0.0–193 for x = 0.2 due to the Co2+-Mn4+ FM coupling and it follows Curie–Weiss law in the paramagnetic region. Impedance spectroscopy studies show that the conductivity in these materials is predominantly due to the intrinsic bulk grains.

Z-Scheme Enabled 1D/2D Nanocomposite of ZnO Nanorods and Functionalized g-C3 N4 Nanosheets for Sustainable Degradation of Terephthalic Acid.

The urgent need to mitigate water pollution and achieve Sustainable Development Goal 14 (SDG 14)-Life below water, necessitates developing efficient and eco-friendly wastewater treatment technologies. This research addresses this challenge by photocatalytic degradation of terephthalic acid, a precursor for PET bottles using environment-friendly and biocompatible photocatalysts. The 1D/2D nanocomposite comprising zinc oxide (ZnO) nanorods and functionalized graphitic carbon nitride (Zn-TG) nanosheets were synthesized and thoroughly characterized. The nanocomposite effectively mitigated the individual drawbacks of Zn-TG agglomeration and the wide band gap of ZnO as confirmed through zeta potential and Tauc's plot studies, respectively. The synthesized nanocomposite achieved ~100 % degradation within 60 minutes, exhibiting superior kinetics (~2.5 times) compared to pristine samples. The enhanced degradation efficiency was elucidated by efficient charge carrier transfer (~5 times faster) and separation (~2 times improved) as confirmed through electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and time-resolved photoluminescence studies. The proposed Z-scheme pathway provides mechanistic insights. This proposed mechanism is supported by extensive electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) and scavenger studies. The liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) analysis confirms the formation of less toxic byproducts for ensuring that the wastewater treatment process is efficient and environmentally friendly. This research helps in developing a highly effective and sustainable wastewater treatment technology.

Chemical and electrochemical repair methods for the anchorage regions of grouted, post-tensioned concrete systems

Grouted, post-tensioned concrete systems are commonly used for constructing bridges with an intended corrosion-free service life of 100+ years. However, the use of inadequate grout materials and improper grouting techniques have caused voids at the anchorage regions – resulting in premature corrosion (say, within one or two decades) of strands. In addition, re-grouting the voids with repair grout has aggravated the corrosion of strands at the interface between the base grout (usually carbonated) and repair grout due to the differences in their chemical properties – raising concerns and leading to reluctance in re-grouting the voids in tendons. This work focused on developing non-invasive chemical (re-alkalization) and electrochemical (galvanic cathodic protection) methods to repair the anchorages of grouted, post-tensioned concrete systems. Immersion experiments were conducted to assess the efficiency of alkaline solutions in re-alkalizing the carbonated grouts. It was found that 1M Ca(OH)2 solution can restore the pH of the carbonated grouts in about a day. Moreover, the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy studies indicated that 1M Ca(OH)2 solution can re-passivate the embedded strands within a week. It can be sometimes challenging to achieve complete re-alkalization and re-grouting of voids; hence, a redundant electrochemical system that could work from outside the anchorage was found necessary. Therefore, experiments were conducted to evaluate the viability of galvanic anodes in protecting the anchorages. It was found that a thin layer of grout surrounding the strand would be sufficient to provide ionic conductivity for the galvanic anode (connected to the strand-end outside the anchorage) to protect the strand portions inside the anchorage. Based on the study, recommendations for the repair of the anchorage regions using chemical and electrochemical methods are presented.

Formamidinium Lead Iodide‐Based Perovskite Solar Cell Fabrication With an Electrospun‐Reduced Graphene Oxide Back Electrode: A Novel Approach

AbstractIn this work, low‐cost and simple structure perovskite solar cells (PSCs) were fabricated using formamidinium lead iodide (FAPbI3) as the light absorber and reduced graphene oxide nanofibers (rGO NFs) as the counter electrode (CE). The FAPbI3 light absorber was prepared using a two‐step solution process, whereas the rGO NFs were synthesized through a simple electrospinning method. The as‐prepared FAPbI3 and rGO NFs were characterized by high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) pattern analysis. The surface morphology of the as‐prepared FAPbI3 and rGO NFs showed crystalline and bead‐free fiber structures, as confirmed by HRTEM and FESEM image analysis. The AFM topographical images of FAPbI3 and rGO NFs further reveal the crystalline and fiber structures. XRD pattern analysis confirmed the cubic crystalline phase of FAPbI3 and the graphitic nature of rGO NFs. From the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy studies, the PSC assembled with the FAPbI3 light absorber and rGO NFs‐based CE demonstrated an electrical conductivity of 3.64 × 10−4 S cm−1. The fabricated PSC device achieved an efficiency of 8.78% compared to the 7.49% efficiency of the device with a sputtered gold CE. This work uniquely integrates advanced materials, cost‐effective manufacturing, and enhanced efficiency in PSCs using FAPbI3 light absorbers and rGO NFs, addressing key challenges in cost and sustainability in solar technology.

Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy Study of Ceria- and Zirconia-Based Solid Electrolytes for Application Purposes in Fuel Cells and Gas Sensors.

In this study, the structural and electrochemical properties of commercial powders of the nominal compositions Ce0.8Gd0.2O1.9, Sc0.1Ce0.01Zr0.89O1.95, and Sc0.09Yb0.01Zr0.9O1.95 were investigated. The materials are prospective candidates to be used in electrochemical devices, i.e., gas sensors and fuel cells. Based on a comparison of the EIS spectra in different atmospheres (synthetic air, 3000 ppm NH3 in argon, 10% H2 in argon), the reactions on the three-phase boundaries were proposed, as well as the conduction mechanisms of the electrolytes were described. The Ce0.8Gd0.2O1.9 material is a mixed ionic-electronic conductor, which makes it suitable for anode material in fuel cells. Moreover, it exhibits an apparent and reversible response for ammonia, indicating the possibility of usage as an NH3 gas-sensing element. In zirconia-based materials, electrical conduction is realized by oxygen ion carriers. Among them, the most promising from an applicative point of view seems to be Sc0.09Yb0.01Zr0.9O1.95, showing a high, reversible reaction with hydrogen.

Impedance Spectroscopy for Bacterial Cell Monitoring, Analysis, and Antibiotic Susceptibility Testing.

Conventional approaches for bacterial cell analysis are hindered by lengthy processing times and tedious protocols that rely on gene amplification and cell culture. Impedance spectroscopy has emerged as a promising tool for efficient real-time bacterial monitoring, owing to its simple, label-free nature and cost-effectiveness. However, its limited practical applications in real-world scenarios pose a significant challenge. In this review, we provide a comprehensive study of impedance spectroscopy and its practical utilization in bacterial system measurements. We begin by outlining the fundamentals of impedance theory and modeling, specific to bacterial systems. We then offer insights into various strategies for bacterial cell detection and discuss the role of impedance spectroscopy in antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) and single-cell analysis. Additionally, we explore key aspects of impedance system design, including the influence of electrodes, media, and cell enrichment techniques on the sensitivity, specificity, detection speed, concentration accuracy, and cost-effectiveness of current impedance biosensors. By combining different biosensor design parameters, impedance theory, and detection principles, we propose that impedance applications can be expanded to point-of-care diagnostics, enhancing their practical utility. This Perspective focuses exclusively on ideally polarizable (fully capacitive) electrodes, excluding any consideration of charge transfer resulting from Faradaic reactions.

Synergistic insights to ion-doped hydroxyapatite: bridging XRD, electrical impedance, dielectric characteristics, and antibacterial properties

ABSTRACT In this work, ion-doped hydroxyapatite materials were synthesized using the sol-gel technique. XRD analysis confirmed the purity of the products, with no secondary peaks observed. Doping with manganese, lithium, potassium, and zinc ions resulted in a crystalline size of 47–48 nm. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy validated the structural bands, while scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy revealed nano-rod-like particles with sizes ranging from 30 to 80 nm in length and 13 to 40 nm in width. Impedance spectroscopy and dielectric relaxation studies showed electrical behaviour following the Maxwell-Wagner mechanism and non-Debye type relaxation. The materials exhibited strong antibacterial properties, making them promising for medical implant applications.

Fluorescent Protein PEGylation for Stable Photon Manipulation in Deep‐Red Light‐Emitting Devices

AbstractPEGylation is a classic strategy to reduce denaturation and immunogenicity in therapeutic proteins, bioimaging, and drug delivery. However, this concept has not been applied to incorporate biogenic materials as functional components in optoelectronics. Herein, PEGylation is rationalized as an effective tool to stabilize fluorescent proteins in solid‐state photon manipulation down‐converters integrated into bio‐hybrid light‐emitting diodes. In short, the archetypal red‐emitting protein mCherry is nonspecifically PEGylated with methoxypolyethylene glycols (mPEG) chains of different lengths (mPEG‐350/‐750/‐2000). These derivatives hold the same photoluminescence figures‐of‐merit of mCherry, but an improved resistance against organic solvents, pH, temperature, and polymers (in solution/dry‐coatings) upon increasing the mPEG length. Indeed, the best‐performing mCherry‐mPEG‐2000 adduct leads to deep‐red devices with threefold enhanced color stability (>300 h) under harsh operation conditions (150 mW cm−2) over the prior art. Different device architectures along with spectroscopic, thermocycling, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy studies of the prepared coatings aid in rationalizing that PEGylation successfully reduces i) nonreversible thermal denaturation, ii) aggregation in solid‐state, and iii) photo‐induced oxidation and H+‐transfer deactivation of the chromophore, since oxygen diffusivity and H+‐reorganization across the protein skeleton are slowed down by strong H+‐bonding/hydrophobic mCherry‐mPEG interactions. Hence, this simple supramolecular modification is of utmost relevance for future advances in protein‐based optoelectronics.

Poly(aniline)-multiwall carbon nanotube (PANI@MWCNT) composite as high-cost Pt free counter electrode for dye-sensitized solar cells

In this study, we synthesized a poly (aniline)-multiwall carbon nanotube (PANI@MWCNT) composite for use as a counter electrode (CE) in dye-sensitized solar cells. Moreover, FE-SEM and HR-TEM images of PANI@MWCNT revealed carbon nanotube/ropes embedded in the polymer matrix. An X-ray diffraction pattern confirmed the amorphous nature of the composite. Further, Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy studies indicated a charge transport resistance value (Rct) of 4.36 KΩ for PANI@MWCNT. CV studies demonstrated improved electrocatalytic performance and faster redox behavior in the PANI@MWCNT composite. BET analysis measured the pore size of the as-prepared composite to be 15–50 nm. Subsequently, the as-synthesized PANI, PANT@MWNCT, pristine MWCNT, and platinum were evaluated as CEs in DSSCs using a polyethylene oxide polymer-based liquid electrolyte and a TiO2 nanocrystalline photoanode. Among these CEs, the PANI@MWCNT CE exhibited an efficiency of 8.07 %, and the stability test indicated that the as-prepared composite CE retained 7.81 % efficiency after 15 days.

Unlocking the charge efficiency of γ’-V2O5 for Na-ion battery through a solution synthesis technique

In this study, the γ’-V2O5 cathode material was prepared through a solution synthesis technique leading to homogeneous, fine and porous particles 100–200 nm in size. This successful preparation allows to overcome the huge drawback of the microsized material in terms of charge efficiency and to take benefit of the attractive Na insertion properties of γ’-V2O5, i. e. a significant available capacity of 145 mAh g- 1, a high working potential of about 3.25 V vs. Na+/Na, an excellent charge efficiency, a high-rate capability and good cycle life. A detailed structural study upon Na insertion/extraction shows that the proposed nanosizing approach promotes a homogeneous Na solubility and solid solution behavior in a wider composition range (0.4 < x ≤ 1 in γ-NaxV2O5) compared to the results previously reported for solid-state synthesized γ’-V2O5. Furthermore, highly reversible structural changes are evidenced. Key kinetic parameters governing the Na insertion-extraction reaction are discussed thanks to an impedance spectroscopy study revealing a faster Na diffusivity in the one-phase region. The obtained results allow a comprehensive understanding of the enhanced performance exhibited by the present sub-micronic γ’-V2O5 material.

An impedance spectroscopy study to unravel the effect of water on proton and oxygen transport in PEM fuel cells

A recent physics-based model for liquid and gaseous water transport in the cathode catalyst layer (CCL) is incorporated into our 1d ＋ 1d model for the PEM fuel cell impedance. The model includes parametric dependencies of the CCL oxygen diffusivity and proton conductivity on the liquid saturation. Fitting of the 1d ＋ 1d model to experimental impedance spectra of a PEM fuel cell reveals two intriguing effects. Contrary to common belief, the liquid water saturation in the CCL is nearly independent of cell current density due to the growing liquid pressure gradient that drives liquid water removal from the CCL. Further, the “dry” oxygen diffusivity of the catalyst layer increases with cell current density. Apparently, at small current density, electrochemical conversion proceeds primarily in narrow pores, where the Knudsen oxygen diffusivity is low. With growing current density, larger and better connected pores with higher oxygen diffusivity dominate in the current conversion, leading to increase in effective oxygen diffusivity observed in impedance spectroscopy data.

Dielectric, magnetic and impedance spectroscopic studies of 0.9 Bi2/3Cu3Ti4O12–0.1 Bi3LaTi3O12 composite synthesized by semi-wet route

Dielectric, magnetic and impedance spectroscopic studies of 0.9 Bi2/3Cu3Ti4O12–0.1 Bi3LaTi3O12 composite synthesized by semi-wet route

Synthesis of Sr2(Co1.1;Mo0.9)O6-δ double perovskite and its electrochemical performance in the oxygen reduction reaction

Mixed ionic-electronic conductors composed of Sr2(Co;Mo)O6-δ double perovskites have been identified as potential candidates for symmetric Solid Oxide Fuel Cells, but their performance and stability under cathodic conditions remain unclear. Typically, a Co:Mo ratio of 1:1 leads to the formation of SrMoO4 as a by-product when the material is treated in air. In this study, we show that employing a glycine-nitrate combustion process with a high fuel ratio, along with an excess of cobalt, leads to a single-phase material with a double perovskite crystal structure (I4/m space group) after air calcination at high temperatures. Detailed Co and Mo speciation studies conducted using XPS and XANES spectroscopies are also presented to support these findings. Our electrochemical impedance spectroscopy study shows that this material exhibits excellent electrocatalytic response for the oxygen reduction reaction, with oxygen ion diffusion through the cathode being the rate-limiting process. Furthermore, the material shows strong chemical compatibility with (La;Sr)(Ga;Mg)O3-δ electrolytes at temperatures up to 1000 °C. For comparison purposes, we also present the properties of single perovskite cathodes with the composition Sr(Co0.95;Mo0.05)O3-δ.

Comparative study of natural dyes extracted from dark red and yellow Frangipani flowers (Plumeria rubra L.) as DSSC sensitizer

Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSC) provide credible alternative for the inorganic solid-state photovoltaic devices. In this work, natural sensitizer extracted from Plumeria rubra L. flower (Frangipani) in ethanol has been used as the sensitizer dye. Dark red and yellow species of Frangipani flower petals extracted natural dyes have been studied for their comparative performance as sensitizer dye. FTIR revealed the presence of hydroxyl and carbonyl group in the sensitizer dye, which helped in binding with TiO2. UV-Visible analysis revealed absorption in visible region, which got broadened for dye loaded TiO2. Mass spectrometry confirmed major chemical constituents present in Plumeria rubra L. flower. For the HOMO and LUMO levels of dark red and yellow Frangipani flowers, the density functional theory (DFT) calculation was performed. Light-to-electricity conversion efficiency (ɳ%) of dark red Frangipani flowers was achieved 0.148 % with Voc 0.27 V, Jsc 0.88 mA/cm2 and FF 0.62, which was comparatively higher than yellow Frangipani flowers-based cell having ɳ% 0.128 % with Voc 0.54 V, Jsc 0.37 mA/cm2 and FF 0.64, respectively. For analyzing the charge transfer characteristics, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) studies were carried out. The dark red species of Frangipani flower showed better result as sensitizer dye compared to the yellow species.

Exploring novel nanostructural architecture of doubly doped ceria (Ce0.85Sr0.075Sm0.075O2-δ) and barium cerate (BaCeO3) as electrolytes for low-temperature solid oxide fuel cells

This study presents the development of a composite electrolyte for use in low-temperature (300–500 °C) Solid oxide Fuel Cells, focusing on a novel nanostructural design. The electrolyte comprises co-doped ceria (Ce0.85Sr0.075Sm0.075O2-δ, DCO) and barium cerate (BaCeO3, BCO), integrated into a unique nanostructural architecture. Initially, the constituent phases of the composite DCO and BCO are synthesized using a soft-chemical route separately, followed by their integration through liquid mixing technique in various compositions (90:10, 80:20, 70:30, 60:40, 50:50) of DCO:BCO in weight ratio. The composite structure is confirmed by X-ray diffraction, and refined the structural data by Rietveld refinement indicating a structural agreement with cubic and fluorite phases of DCO and BCO, respectively. Scanning Electron microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray Analysis (EDAX) reveal a uniform distribution of two phases with fine size distribution below 50 nm. Transmission Electron microscopy (TEM) images illustrate the core-shell-like integration of the two phases. High-resolution TEM images indicate that the core consists of the DCO phase, while the shell is composed of the BCO phase. The microstructure of sintered pellets exhibits gas-tight densification, with grains dominated by the DCO phase and BCO phase dispersed along grain boundaries. The ionic conductivity of composite systems is extracted from Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) studies, showing that DCO-BCO-40 exhibits the highest conductivity 1.132 × 10−3 Scm−1 @400 °C, which is higher than pristine DCO (0.34 × 10−4 Scm−1 @400 °C). Single cells fabricated using DCO-BCO-40 electrolytes deliver a power output of 280 mW cm−2 whereas pristine DCO showed 279 mW @500 °C. This study exhibits the potential of the core-shell-like nanostructural architecture of electrolytes in advancing Low-temperature solid oxide Fuel cell (LT-SOFC) technology and facilitating the transition toward sustainable energy systems.

Impedance Spectroscopy Study of Charge Transfer in the Bulk and Across the Interface in Networked SnO2/Ga2O3 Core–Shell Nanobelts in Ambient Air

Metal oxide core–shell fibrous nanostructures are promising gas-sensitive materials for the detection of a wide variety of both reducing and oxidizing gases. In these structures, two dissimilar materials with different work functions are brought into contact to form a coaxial heterojunction. The influence of the shell material on the transportation of the electric charge carriers along these structures is still not very well understood. This is due to homo-, hetero- and metal/semiconductor junctions, which make it difficult to investigate the electric charge transfer using direct current methods. However, in order to improve the gas-sensing properties of these complex structures, it is necessary to first establish a good understanding of the electric charge transfer in ambient air. In this article, we present an impedance spectroscopy study of networked SnO2/Ga2O3 core–shell nanobelts in ambient air. Tin dioxide nanobelts were grown directly on interdigitated gold electrodes, using the thermal sublimation method, via the vapor–liquid–solid (VLS) mechanism. Two forms of a gallium oxide shell of varying thickness were prepared via halide vapor-phase epitaxy (HVPE), and the impedance spectra were measured at 189–768 °C. The bulk resistance of the core–shell nanobelts was found to be reduced due to the formation of an electron accumulation layer in the SnO2 core. At temperatures above 530 °C, the thermal reduction of SnO2 and the associated decrease in its work function caused electrons to flow from the accumulation layer into the Ga2O3 shell, which resulted in an increase in bulk resistance. The junction resistance of said core–shell nanostructures was comparable to that of SnO2 nanobelts, as both structures are likely connected through existing SnO2/SnO2 homojunctions comprising thin amorphous layers.

Synergizing empirical and AI methods to examine nano-silica's microscale contribution to epoxy coating corrosion resistance

Epoxy-nanomaterials offer a promising solution to combat corrosion threatening civil infrastructure. To examine the impact of nano silica on corrosion resistance, varying amounts of nano silica, ranging from 0.0 to 3 wt%, were introduced into the epoxy matrix. Mechanical properties were studied through studying the dog-bone tensile strength and tribological aspects were assessed through mass loss abrasion tests. Corrosion resistance performance was studied using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and salt spray tests. Nano structure of the coated specimens was studied after salt spray tests using SEM-EDX analysis. Micro Chromatography (M-Ct) technique was employed to investigate the pore formation in the epoxy matrix. Besides, atomic force microscopy (AFM) was introduced to study surface roughness. The test results displayed a notable improvement (5–10 %) in tensile strength upon the introduction of nano silica. Taber tester results showed a reduction in mass loss with the addition of nano silica. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) studies further established a significant increase in corrosion resistance, having an impedance of 12 GOhm.cm2 for epoxy matrix samples containing 2.5 % nano silica after a 768-h salt spray test. SEM-EDX analysis revealed the absence of iron content in the epoxy matrix reinforced with uniformly distributed nano silica. Surface roughness assessments illustrated that nanolaminates contributed to an increase in overall roughness, minimizing surface irregularities in the epoxy matrix. Micro-CT scanning results proposed a decrease in epoxy matrix porosity upon the addition of nano silica. AI based prediction model helped to understand the relationship between surface roughness and corrosion. In summary, the experimental findings suggest valuable insights for future advancements in the development of protective coatings for worldwide civil infrastructures.