Development of a Modified Epoxy Coating with a Carbon Nanocarrier and Composite Framework for Protecting against Pitting Corrosion in Aerospace Structures

Faghani, Gholamreza

Development of a Modified Epoxy Coating with a Carbon Nanocarrier and Composite Framework for Protecting against Pitting Corrosion in Aerospace Structures

Document Type : Original Article

Author

Gholamreza Faghani

Assistant professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Khatam-Ol-Anbia (PBU) University, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

Pitting corrosion is one of the most destructive forms of localized metal degradation and poses a serious threat in aerospace structures, particularly in the presence of chloride ions. Conventional epoxy coatings have limited durability against aggressive agents and mechanical damage. The aim of this study was to develop and evaluate an epoxy coating modified with a hybrid nanocomposite of reduced graphene oxide and zeolitic imidazolate framework in order to enhance resistance to pitting corrosion and improve self-healing ability. The hybrid nanocomposite was synthesized through an in-situ growth method and incorporated into the epoxy matrix. The prepared coatings were applied on steel substrates and cured, then analyzed using chemical and microstructural techniques. Their corrosion performance was assessed by electrochemical tests, salt spray exposure, cathodic delamination, and adhesion evaluation. The results showed that the coating containing reduced graphene oxide and the zeolitic framework exhibited the highest electrochemical resistance and protective efficiency. In time-dependent tests, this coating demonstrated a continuous increase in resistance, while in scratched areas it formed a compact and uniform protective layer that effectively prevented corrosion propagation. The synergistic action of the graphene barrier effect and controlled release of zinc ions and imidazole molecules contributed to inhibiting anodic and cathodic reactions, thereby reducing the corrosion rate significantly. The novel epoxy coating reinforced with reduced graphene oxide and metal–organic framework provided long-term and stable protection against pitting corrosion by combining barrier and active inhibition mechanisms. This approach offers a promising pathway for the development of smart and self-healing next-generation coatings.

Keywords

Pitting corrosion

Epoxy coating

Reduced graphene oxide

Metal&‌ndash

organic framework

Self-healing

Subjects

Advanced materials (nano materials, absorbents, adhesives, lubricants, fire retardants, etc.)

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