Enhancement of Corrosion Resistance and Microbial Protection Analysis of a Rosin Coating with the Incorporation of Leucaena leucocephala

Abstract

Leucaena leucocephala leaves extract (LLE) was incorporated as an additive in a new coating formulation. The coatings containing different wt.% of the extracts were analysed by optical characterizations and we proceeded to the antimicrobial assessment. The coating was applied onto the surface of stainless steel grade 316L and immersed in seawater for 50 days. A batch of specimens was collected every 10 days and evaluated through electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), potentiodynamic polarization and scanning electron microscope with energy dispersive X-ray (SEM/EDX). The incorporation of 3 wt.% LLE into the coating (P2) matrix remarkably boosted the barrier quality of the coating.