Layer-by-layer assembled nanocontainers for self-healing corrosion protection

The self-healing anticorrosion effect of layer-by-layer (LbL) assembled nano-reservoirs (polyelectrolyte-coated nanoparticles) embedded in a hybrid coating deposited onto an Al alloy is investigated (see figure). The corrosion inhibitor, benzotriazole, is entrapped in the polyelectrolyte at the LbL assembly step; its release is initiated by local pH changes near the corrosion-damaged zones in the alloy. The nanoreservoirs increase long-term corrosion protection of the substrate and provide effective inhibitor storage and its prolonged release on demand.