Fabrication of super hydrophobic nanostructured ceramic composite coating on 304 stainless steel

Abstract

An electrochemical deposition process was used to effectively coat 304 stainless steel surfaces with a robust and long lasting superhydrophobic ceramic composite featuring nanostructures. Graphene oxide (GO) and cerium oxide (CeO₂) nanoparticles were integrated into nanocomposite coatings, with stearic acid acting as the binding agent. Through structural analysis, chemical interactions between GO and CeO₂ nanoparticles were identified, while surface analysis highlighted the essential function of GO in nanocomposite coatings. The nanocomposite coatings that were synthesized demonstrated excellent adhesion, outstanding mechanical resilience and superhydrophobic characteristics, as confirmed by adhesion evaluations, microhardness tests and water contact angle measurements. The superhydrophobic surface that was produced exhibited strong mechanical stability and enduring durability, along with properties that resist corrosion. In a 3.5% NaCl solution, electrochemical tests demonstrated that the GO/CeO2 nanocomposite coatings offered enhanced corrosion resistance compared to both uncoated and other treated substrates. The improved ant_icorrosive properties are due to the superhydrophobic characteristics of the coatings applied. This findings indicates that the GO/CeO₂ nanocomposite coatings could act as efficient protective layers, enhancing the corrosion resistance of 304 SS in environments with high chloride content. The technique that has been developed shows significant potential for industrial use in producing superhydrophobic surfaces and could be modified to improve the corrosion resistance of a variety of other metallic materials.