Comparative Anticorrosion Performance of Electrochemically Produced Zn–NiO and Zn–NiO–ZrO2 Composite Coatings on Mild Steel

Abstract

Zinc composite coatings of Zn–NiO and Zn–NiO–ZrO₂ were produced by electrodeposition on mild steel using a Zn-sulphate bath. The homogeneous dispersion of the metal oxide nanoparticles for composite coating was achieved by magnetic stirring of the bath solution for about 6 h. The surface characteristics were examined by scanning electron microscopy supported by energy dispersive spectroscopy. The hydrophobic nature of the deposits has been determined by contact angle images of the deposits. The comparative corrosion resistive property of Zn, Zn–NiO and Zn–NiO–ZrO₂ deposits was investigated by using a corrosion medium of 3.65% NaCl solution. The corrosion resistance performance of the coatings was analyzed by the Tafel polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy.