Influence of ceramic coating of MgO on oxidation behavior and descaling ability of low alloy steel

► We prepared an MgO coating to enhance oxidation resistance of the steel. ► Mg-Fe spinel formed could decrease cation diffusion rate through the oxide scale. ► Coating could reduce the segregation of Si at the interface of scale and substrate. ► Coating could improve the descaling ability of the scale. ► The low cost method is potentially applicable in steel-producing industries.