Corrosion resistance of composite coatings on low-carbon steel containing hydrophobic and superhydrophobic layers in combination with oxide sublayers

The methods for the design of highly- and superhydrophobic nanocomposite coatings on the surface of low-carbon steel with oxide layers have been described. To study the peculiarities of the corrosion processes on the coatings in NaCl solution, we have applied the electrochemical methods and the analysis of wetting. It is demonstrated that the most effective and durable protection against electrochemical corrosion is provided by multilayer coatings containing the nanocomposite superhydrophobic layer in combination with underlying oxide layer. The long-term durability of such coatings is affected by both the degree of water repellence and the imperfection of superhydrophobic and conversion layers.

► Nanocomposite superhydrophobic coatings inhibit corrosion of low-carbon steel.
► Combining superhydrophobic and oxide layers exhibit synergetic anticorrosion effect.
► Contact angle is a sensitive tool to detect corrosion processes.