Hybrid epoxy-SiO₂/GO coating: advanced anti-corrosive solution for aeronautic aluminum
A groundbreaking study highlights how combining epoxy resin, silica, and graphene oxide significantly enhances the corrosion resistance and mechanical properties of aluminum surfaces.
Researchers recently developed a hybrid epoxy coating incorporating silica (SiO₂) and graphene oxide (GO) to protect aluminum Al6061-T5 against corrosion in aerospace applications. The study evaluated three material variations with GO concentrations of 0%, 0.1%, and 0.5%.
Using a sol-gel process, silica particles were integrated into a functionalized epoxy resin matrix. ASTM-standard tests revealed that 0.5% GO improved properties such as hardness (up to 9H), abrasion resistance (by 35%), and corrosion protection (lasting up to 500 hours).
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Enhanced Hydrophobicity and Corrosion Resistance
Contact angle measurements demonstrated the coatings’ hydrophobic nature, with GO forming an effective anti-corrosive barrier. The 0.5% GO variant emerged as the most efficient solution, ensuring long-term protection for aluminum surfaces in harsh environments.
Source: Journal of Coatings Technology and Research, Volume 21, pages 559–574, 2024.
