Electrochemical synthesis: a novel technique for processing multi-functional coatings

Electrochemical synthesis is a powerful tool for surface modification, substrate cleaning and formulation of thin films and bulk materials. It is especially suited for surface modification of fibers, metals and films. In the past decade electrochemical method has become the preferred technique for in situ passivation, and coating of commodity metals such as aluminum, zinc, copper and steel. We have successfully synthesized different kinds of conducting polymers, including polypyrrole (PPy)-polyaniline (PANi) composites. The processability and corrosion performance of PPy/PANi, composite coatings are significantly better than those for either PPy or PANi, coatings. In this paper, we will discuss the use of electrochemical technique in the synthesis and characterization of multi-functional corrosion resistant conducting polymer coatings for aerospace and automotive applications. (C) 2003 Published by Elsevier B.V.