Effect of reinforcement of mixed metal oxide nanoparticles in polyurethane resin for barrier and dynamic mechanical properties of steel structures

Purpose This study aims to study the effect of the reinforcement of mixed CeO 2 -ZrO 2 nanoparticles in the polyurethane (PU) for protection properties of steel structures. Design/methodology/approach Electrochemical techniques were used to study the anticorrosion properties of the generated PU/CeO 2 -ZrO 2 nanocomposite coated steel. Dynamic mechanical testing was done to investigate the mechanical properties. Findings In natural seawater, Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy experiments indicated outstanding protective behaviour for the PU/CeO 2 -ZrO 2 -coated steel. The coating resistance of the PU/CeO 2 -ZrO 2 nanocomposite coating was found to be roughly 30% greater than that of the PU coating. Scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction analyses of the coated steel surface revealed that the CeO 2 -ZrO 2 was accumulated at the corrosion products, preventing the corrosion. Dynamic mechanical analysis revealed that when the nanoparticle concentration was 3 Wt.%, the PU/CeO 2 -ZrO 2 nanocomposite coating had improved dynamic mechanical parameters. Originality/value The coating resistance of the PU/CeO 2 -ZrO 2 nanocomposite was determined to be 2999.17 kΩ.cm 2 . The perceived current by scanning electrochemical microscopy analysis across the PU/CeO 2 -ZrO 2 coating was 1.7 nA. The PU/CeO 2 -ZrO 2 nanocomposite had a good hydrophobic behaviour (WCA: 101o). The newly synthesised PU/CeO 2 -ZrO 2 composite offered great barrier and mechanical properties, preventing material degradation and increase the lifespan of the coated steel. Hence, this form of coating could be used as a viable coating material for industrial purposes.