Electrochemical synthesis and characterization of poly(m-phenylenediamine) films on copper for corrosion protection

Poly(m-phenylenediamine) (PMPD) films were electrosynthesized on copper by using cyclic voltammetry in near-neutral aqueous sodium oxalate medium. Attenuated Total Reflectance-Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy were utilized to characterize the obtained PMPD films. Corrosion performances of uncoated and PMPD coated copper electrodes were investigated in 0.1 M H2SO4 by open circuit potential–time (Eocp–t) curves, anodic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy techniques. Corrosion test results demonstrate that the PMPD coating appears to enhance protection of copper for considerable immersion periods. The percent protection efficiency value (E%) was found to be 80% even after 168 h immersion time in corrosive test solution.

► We examined electrodeposition of poly(m-phenylenediamine) on copper. ► We characterized this polymer by ATR-FTIR, SEM and AFM techniques. ► We evaluated corrosion performance of the coating in 0.1 M H2SO4 medium. ► Poly(m-phenylenediamine) is a candidate for the protection of copper.