Poly(N-methyl aniline) thin films on copper: Synthesis, characterization and corrosion protection

Poly(N-methyl aniline) (PNMA) coatings were synthesized on copper by electrochemical polymerization of N-methyl aniline in aqueous oxalic acid solution by using cyclic voltammetry. The optimum electrodeposition conditions (e.g. upper potential limit, scan rate and cycle number) were determined in order to obtain PNMA coatings to have the best corrosion performance. PNMA coatings were characterized by cyclic voltammetry, Fourier Transform Infrared-Attenuated Total Reflectance spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Redox parameters found after electrochemical tests indicate a thin film character and diffusion controlled electroactive behavior of PNMA. Corrosion test results revealed that PNMA coating appears to enhance protection of copper in 0.1 M H2SO4 solution.