Enhanced Anti-corrosion and Anti-fouling Properties of Galvanized Iron Using Nanocomposite Hydrophobic Coatings

Nanocomposite hydrophobic coatings have garnered substantial interest in recent times due to their remarkable anticorrosion and antifouling attributes. These coatings are designed to repel water and thwart the adherence of contaminants, rendering them valuable for an array of applications, including self-cleaning surfaces, anti-icing coatings, marine protection, and biomedical uses. This study delves into the fabrication of nanocomposite coatings, incorporating mixed oxide nanoparticles of CuO-MgO, MgO-ZnO, and CuO-ZnO at varying weight percentages within a poly (lactic acid) (PLA) matrix. Surface morphology and elemental composition were examined through Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM) and Energy-Dispersive x-ray Analysis (EDAX). The chemical composition of the coatings was assessed using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), revealing structural changes specific to PLA with Mg-Zn nanocomposite coating. The wettability studies indicate that the PLA/Cu-Mg coated sample exhibits superior hydrophobic properties, with a water contact angle (CA) of 98.2°. This value represents a remarkable 48.7 % increase compared to the bare Galvanised iron (GI) substrate. The coating's mechanical properties were assessed using scratch and adhesion tests. The efficacy of these coatings for anticorrosion and antifouling applications was gauged through comprehensive evaluations, in-vitro corrosion studies, egg white tests, and antibacterial tests. PLA/Mg-Zn nanocomposite coating exhibited exceptional performance in terms of scratch hardness and adhesion strength, whereas PLA/Cu-Zn nanocomposite coating exhibited better anticorrosion and antifouling properties.