Copper(II) 8-hydroxyquinolinate 3D network film with corrosion inhibitor embedded for self-healing corrosion protection

This work presents a self-healing protective coating for copper. The complex coating is composed of copper(II) 8-hydroxyquinolinate (Cu(8HQ)2) 3D network film storing corrosion inhibitor as base layer and epoxy as top layer covering on the base layer. The results of EIS and polarization curves reveal the self-healing effect of Cu(8HQ)2 3D network film with corrosion inhibitor embedded. After being scratched with a knife-edge, the complex coating rapidly releases inhibitor embedded in 3D network structure to suppress the corrosion process. The scratch on the coating is covered with inhibitor adsorption film and the anodic activity is restrained.