Corrosion inhibition effect of nano-SiO2 for galvanized steel superhydrophobic surface

Superhydrophobic surfaces containing nano-SiO2 with excellent water repellency and wonderful corrosion resistance were prepared by a simple one-step immersion process on galvanized steel. The addition of SiO2 promotes the formation of surface rough structure efficiently, and the as-prepared surfaces exhibit good superhydrophobic property. Sample with 1 wt% SiO2 (Ms-1) attained contact angle reaching to 160.1 +/- 2 degrees and the corrosion current density with 8.34 x 10(-8) A.cm(-2), which is three orders of magnitude lower than galvanized steel. Due to the good shielding property and stability of SiO2, the anti-corrosion efficiency of Ms-1 has reached 99.6% in 3.5 wt% NaCl solution. The corrosion resistance of Ms-1 immersion for 48 h is better than untreated sample and after immersion for a week, the CA is still above 120 degrees. The superhydrophobic surface with SiO2 can effectively improve the corrosion protection and hydrophobicity of galvanized steel.

Automated summary

By preparing superhydrophobic surfaces containing nano-SiO2 through a simple one-step immersion process on galvanized steel, the corrosion resistance and hydrophobicity of the steel can be significantly improved. The addition of SiO2 promotes the formation of surface rough structure, resulting in excellent superhydrophobic properties and corrosion resistance in the prepared surfaces.