Influence of Graphene Oxide Additions on the Corrosion Resistance of a Rust Converter Primer

Abstract

Graphene oxide (GO) has attractive properties, such as a two-dimensional structure. Because of its hydrophilic characteristic, well-dispersed aqueous solutions are attained. Thus, it is easily incorporated into waterborne resins. For these reasons, in the last years GO nanoparticles have been added to polymers, improving corrosion resistance. This work is focused on the performance of a commercial rust converter (RC) doped with five different RC:GO ratios, namely, 1:0; 1:0.3; 1:0.6; 1:0.9; 1:1.2 (%v/v). The X-ray diffraction technique is used to illustrate the effect of RC and RC + GO additions in the iron oxides. Zeta-potential measurements are performed to assess the surface charge of the GO particles. The corrosion resistances of the rusted samples coated with the five rust converter formulations are studied. The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) technique and an electrical equivalent circuit are utilized to explain the experimental results. Additionally, it is found that the optimal RC:GO ratio is between 1:0.3 and 1:0.6. The better corrosion resistance reached is that of the RC:0.3GO ratio.