EIS evaluation of protective performance and surface characterization of epoxy coating with aluminum nanoparticles after wet and dry corrosion test

The effect of addition of aluminum (Al) nanoparticles to epoxy coating on the ability to protect the carbon steel was studied by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and focused ion beam-transmission electron microscopy. The EIS was conducted in 0.1 M NaCl solution after wet/dry cyclic corrosion test. The addition of Al nanoparticles increased the film resistance (R (f)) and the charge transfer resistance (R (ct)) of epoxy-coated steel. The surface analysis showed that uniform and fine Al-Fe complex oxide layers were formed acting as barrier layers that enhanced the corrosion protection of the epoxy-coated steel. It has been concluded that the Al nanoparticles had a beneficial role in improving the corrosion resistance of the epoxy-coated steel.