Corrosion studies on the plasma‐sprayed nanostructured titanium dioxide coatings

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to report the resistance of plasma‐sprayed titanium dioxide (TiO₂) nanostructured coatings in a corrosive environment.

Design/methodology/approach

Weight loss studies are performed according to ASTM G31 specifications in 3.5 wt% NaCl. Electrochemical polarization resistance measurements are made according to ASTM G59‐91 specifications. Corrosion resistance in a humid and corrosive environment is determined by exposing the samples in a salt spray chamber for 100 h. Microstructural studies are carried out using an atomic force microscope and scanning electron microscope.

Findings

The nanostructured TiO₂ coatings offer good resistance to corrosion, as shown by the results of immersion, electrochemical and salt spray studies. The corrosion resistance of the coating is dictated primarily by the geometry of splat lamellae, density of unmelted nanoparticles, magnitude of porosity and surface homogeneity.

Practical implications

The TiO₂ nanostructured coatings show promising potential for use as abrasion, wear‐resistant and thermal barrier coatings for service in harsh environments.

Originality/value

The paper relates the corrosion resistance of nanostructured TiO₂ coatings to their structure and surface morphology.

Citation

Ahmad, Z. and Ahsan, M. (2009), "Corrosion studies on the plasma‐sprayed nanostructured titanium dioxide coatings", Anti-Corrosion Methods and Materials, Vol. 56 No. 4, pp. 187-195. https://doi.org/10.1108/00035590910969310