Preparation of mussel-inspired perfluorinated polydopamine film on brass substrates: Superhydrophobic and anti-corrosion application

Inspired by the adhesive properties of protein of mussels, perfluorinated polydopamine (fPDA) film on brass surface was obtained through spontaneous polymerization of dopamine monomer, followed by functionalization with 1H,1H,2H,2H-perfluorodecanethiol (PFDT). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and water contact angle (WCA) measurements revealed the formation of uniform, compact and superhydrophobic film. Electrochemical tests indicated that brass-coated with fPDA possessed a low corrosion current density and high film resistance. The modified sample dipped in 3 wt.% NaCl aqueous solution was well preserved. The results clearly indicate that the remarkable anti-corrosion capability was the result of the synergistic/cooperative effects of the superhydrophobicity and enhanced adhesion of the fPDA film.